PHOTO: Ricky Starks shows off ripped physique amidst AEW absence

Ricky Starks is one of AEW's most beloved in-ring performers. The Absolute has been missing from action for several months now amidst rumors surrounding his potential departure from the Tony Khan-led promotion.

Starks is regarded by a huge section of wrestling fans to be an undeniable asset courtesy of his work with top names like Chris Jericho, MJF, Bryan Danielson and CM Punk in All Elite Wrestling. However, the 34-year-old star has been absent from AEW programming since March, despite clarifying recently that he had not been injured and claiming that he is ready to wrestle.

Taking to X/Twitter recently, Starks posted a photograph of himself showing off his considerably shredded physique.

"I can never fail, c'mon [smiling in sunglasses emoji]," wrote Stark.

Check out Ricky Starks' tweet below:

For quite some time now, rumors have been circulating that Starks could be headed to WWE following the expiration of his All Elite Wrestling contract. However, according to reports from as recently as last month, the former FTW Champion is still signed with the Jacksonville-based company and is likely not going to be granted a release by Tony Khan.

AEW's Ricky Starks commented on supporters talking about his potential WWE move

During a recent edition of Highspots Virtual Signing, Ricky Starks talked about fans who have shared the view that the former AEW World Tag Team Champion might end up working for a different company in the future, presumably alluding to WWE, amidst rumors of the sports entertainment juggernaut's supposed interest in acquiring the Louisiana native.

“Honestly, that’s so sweet that people would say that to me (that they think I’ll end up working for someone else). I think it’s a compliment. A great thing to hear people care about me that much.” [H/T - Wrestletalk]

Notably, Fightful Select recently reported that Stroke Daddy may not be able to appear on WWE programming this year as his contract with All Elite Wrestling is not set to run out any time soon. Thus, whether and when Tony Khan will bring Starks back to television remains to be seen.