Just days after his departure from AEW was confirmed, Ricky Starks made his shocking WWE debut during the second hour of this week’s episode of NXT.
Starks was spotted in the crowd, where he was instantly recognized by fans. Acknowledging the reaction, he stated that it was obvious they knew who he was.
He then declared that if NXT is the future of wrestling, it needs a superstar of the future—a clear statement of intent that he plans to dominate the brand. He added that if NXT is the highest brand, it requires the highest free agent, vowing to turn the place upside down.
Starks had been absent from AEW programming since March 2024 and had previously requested his release, but AEW CEO Tony Khan reportedly refused to grant it at the time. Many believed he would have to wait out the remainder of his contract before moving on, but that situation changed when he was officially released from AEW earlier this month.
With Starks now making his first WWE appearance, it remains to be seen how he will be integrated into NXT and whether this will lead to a swift call-up to the main roster. One thing is clear: Ricky Starks has arrived in WWE, and he’s ready to make an impact.
THE GAME JUST CHANGED!!! 🤯#WWENXT pic.twitter.com/458shk5zXo
— WWE (@WWE) February 12, 2025
