Ricky Starks addresses talk of move away from AEW amid WWE rumors

Ricky Starks is one of AEW's most talked-about performers currently. The star has seemingly addressed ongoing rumors of his potential future move to WWE.

The Absolute has proven his caliber several times in the Jacksonville-based promotion since his 2020 debut in programs with top stars like Chris Jericho, MJF, CM Punk, and Bryan Danielson. To the confusion of All Elite viewers, however, the Louisiana native has been missing from action since March this year, having last wrestled in an AEW ring on Collision alongside Big Bill in a failed effort to advance in the AEW World Tag Team Title Tournament.

Starks' continued television absence has fed into rumors of his potential departure from All Elite Wrestling after his contract expires, followed by him possibly signing with WWE. The sports entertainment juggernaut has acquired a number of former All Elite talent over the past couple of years, including Lexis King, Ethan Page, CM Punk, and Starks' friends Cody Rhodes and Jade Cargill.

On a recent edition of Highspots Virtual Signing, Ricky Starks addressed the support he has received from his fans, and seemingly responded to opinions which suggested that the former AEW World Tag Team Champion might land in a different promotion - presumably WWE - some time in the near future.

“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]

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AEW's Ricky Starks revealed that he is not injured

During the same interview with Highspots Virtual Signing, Starks clarified that his hiatus from All Elite Wrestling programming was not owing to any injuries, emphasizing that he was ready to go in the squared circle. The former FTW Champion also voiced his heartfelt gratitude for fans who continue to reach out to him to lend their support and encouragement.

“No (I’m not out of action due to injury). I’m healthy, I’m of sound mind and body. I’m capable to wrestle. Just, you know, not up to me. I get a lot of messages lately where people are like, ‘Hey, just checking in on you. Hope you’re doing well. Hope you’re mentally okay,’ and it’s so sweet. It means a lot to me because these people don’t know what’s going on, right?… But yeah, I get a lot of messages and every time I read ‘em, I tear up. Because people still - they care, you know? I love ‘em."

It remains to be seen whether and when Ricky Starks will be brought back to AEW.