Ricky Starks, a notable figure in wrestling, seems to be caught up in the whirlwind of significant off-screen controversy this week. This drama isn’t solely about his absence from the AEW (All Elite Wrestling) television appearances.
Starks, during his time at GCW (GameChanger Wrestling), expressed feeling “frozen out” within the circle of AEW. Based on his words, it’s evident that his dissatisfaction stems from not receiving ample screen-time on the AEW television shows. Coincidentally, reports suggest that his AEW contract was extended till 2025 post AEW activating his option last spring. The conditions became more layered after his appearance at GCW which caused AEW to withdraw him from further engagements with GCW.
The exact reason for this withdrawal is believed to be linked to remarks made by Effy, a GCW talent, in a podcast. Effy’s conversation revolved around Shad Khan and how the Khan family’s sway affected AEW’s decision-making processes, comprised of using recognized venues such as the Hammerstein Ballroom. Reliable sources like Fightful Select suggest that AEW did not appreciate these remarks, hence the decision to withdraw Starks from future GCW matches.
Regardless of Starks being permitted to compete on the independent circuit outside of GCW, AEW has made it clear that they want to avoid their talents associating with platforms they consider controversial. This puts Starks at a crossroads between AEW’s backstage politics and his personal aspirations for more spotlight.
On Tuesday, GCW took to social media to confirm the removal of the AEW wrestler from his forthcoming engagements with the company. Their statement reads,
“We have just been informed that Ricky Starks has been pulled from all upcoming GCW appearances. This includes his match on 12/14 in Los Angeles, his yet-to-be-announced match on 12/28 in Seattle, and his undisclosed match on 1/19 at The Hammerstein Ballroom.”
The resolution to exclude Starks from forthcoming GCW programs was communicated to him on Tuesday.
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