News

Update on the situation between Ricky Starks and AEW amidst WWE rumors

Aaron Rift

Ricky Starks hasn’t wrestled in AEW since March of 2024. During his absence, Starks told WhatCulture.com that he didn’t know why he’s wasn’t on AEW television and said things were out of his control.

While speaking on WrestlePurists.com’s RAW review, Ibou stated the following about the situation between Starks and AEW…

“At the end of the day, things happened to where he’s on the outs with AEW right now. It is what it is. There’s a lot of things, most of it will never be reported. But ultimately there’s a falling out there and it is what it is. He’s asked for a release, Tony [Khan] won’t give it to him, and he’s just going to wait the rest of his deal. He’s going to stay relevant by working indy dates and good for him, I’m happy for him. That’s just gonna be the situation in the meantime.” (quote courtesy of Cultaholic.com)

Fightful.com reported that Starks is signed with AEW until the spring or summer of 2025. It is rumored that Starks will join WWE once his AEW contract expires.

Dr. Chris Featherstone of Sportskeeda.com also noted the following about Starks…

“Ricky Starks has asked for his release from AEW, I have been informed. The reason is due to frustrations with the current creative process and not being used since a tag team loss with Big Bill against Top Flight, 10 months ago, on the March 30, 2024 episode of Collision.

I have also been informed that Starks has never turned down any creative ideas throughout his entire 10-month television absence, and he is simply just not being utilized. Starks is currently still with the company, and his release at this time is not being granted.”