Ricky Starks reportedly has backstage heat in AEW

Ricky Starks seems to be in some trouble in AEW, and that does not bode well for him as far as getting a push is concerned. This will no doubt be worrisome for some of his ardent fans.

The former FTW Champion was having a good run in the company until February when he and Big Bill were the Tag Team Champions. They were then defeated by Sting and Darby Allin, and he has been missing in action ever since.

Fightful Select’s Sean Ross Sapp has now revealed that Starks has some heat with some higher-ups in AEW. He was answering questions on his Backstage Report podcast when he was asked if Starks had some problems with the authorities in AEW.

Sapp simply said:

“Some, sure.”

While this is unconfirmed, and it's unclear what the extent of his heat is, it could be why the 34-year-old has not been seen on AEW programming of late. It will be interesting to see when he will make a comeback.

Tony Khan comments on Ricky Starks’ absence from AEW

AEW president Tony Khan is someone who is proud of his company's talent, and Ricky Starks has been one of his most popular and acclaimed stars.

Since Starks has not been seen on TV for a while, TK was asked about his whereabouts and his AEW future. The All Elite Chief was giving an interview with SHAK Wrestling when he gave a very encouraging answer:

"I really, really like Ricky Starks a lot; the last time we saw him here was in the World Tag Team Championship Tournament. He and Big Bill formed a great team, and they were the World Tag Team Champions! I think Ricky Starks is tremendous! I'd love to get him involved and back in AEW anytime. He's been a huge part of what we've done here for about four out of five years, and tons of respect for Rico!" Tony said.

With a seal of approval from his boss, one can expect Ricky to come back to AEW soon if the heat from the higher-ups cools down.