Former AEW star Ricky Starks made headlines on February 11, 2025, following his surprise debut on WWE NXT, just one day after his release from AEW. Starks, who had not been seen on AEW television for several months, announced his presence to the audience with gusto, declaring, "It’s obvious you know who I am. If NXT is the future of professional wrestling, well, guess what? You need an absolute superstar of the future. If this is the hottest brand, you need the hottest free agent right now, baby! I am here to turn this place upside down! When will the revolution be televised again? Well, I’m here, ain’t I!"
This dramatic entrance marked Starks' first appearance with WWE after being granted his release from AEW, where his contract was set to expire in April. AEW had opted to pick up the option on his contract earlier, extending it another year. Despite this decision, Starks had not appeared on television since March 2024 when he and his partner Big Bill faced Top Flight on AEW Collision.
Starks’ absence from AEW sparked speculation and concern among fans about his future. During his time off air, Starks sought to keep active, competiting independently, including winning the DEFY World Championship over KENTA just before his WWE debut. The transition to WWE, particularly to NXT, aligns with his ambitions to return to the mainstage of professional wrestling after feeling sidelined.
During his promo on NXT, the crowd welcomed him with enthusiasm. While Starks referenced his catchphrase about revolutionizing wrestling, he also acknowledged the doubts about when this change would come. He emphasized, "Do not let the handsome face and expensive fragrance fool you, I am here to turn this place upside down." His strong return and assertive declarations aim to reinvigorate not just his career but the brand itself.
Starks' path to WWE has been widely anticipated. Reports revealed WWE's significant interest in him even prior to his release. Observers have noted his considerable talent and success during his time at AEW, claiming he has the potential to thrive within WWE's environment. Starks has proven to be one of the best talkers in the industry, which makes him ideal for the NXT brand currently lacking top-level talent.
The wrestling circuit is buzzing with speculations about Starks' future, especially considering the recent trend of former AEW wrestlers finding success with WWE. Stars like Cody Rhodes and CM Punk have paved the way, and Starks is naturally following suit. WWE has previously signed notable AEW talents who have integrated seamlessly and achieved success on the brand, and there are strong expectations for Starks to do the same.
Looking at the current state of wrestling, NXT has been experiencing increased viewership, often outdrawing AEW's flagship show, Dynamite. This environment presents Starks with ample opportunities to establish himself as one of the leading figures and to transition smoothly to WWE's main roster after gaining traction.
Starks, who described his time off from wrestling as “a cold day,” has emphasized his yearning to be back performing. “I’ve been home, I’ve been healthy. Never was injured...It’s been a very cold day here,” he stated, expressing frustration at being sidelined during what he considers his prime. The floodgate has now opened, and with this opportunity at WWE, Starks has set the stage to showcase his talents once more.
His surprise debut on NXT signifies not only Starks’ individual ambitions but potentially marks another pivotal moment for WWE as it enlists fresh talent from AEW. With fans eager for the evolution of wrestling, Starks could very well be the catalyst they’ve been waiting for.
Overall, Ricky Starks' leap from AEW to WWE NXT fulfills his aspirations for broader exposure and the chance to redefine his career after months of uncertainty. The wrestling community watches closely as he embarks on this new chapter, anticipating what his talent will bring to one of wrestling's top brands.