WWE Hall of Famer Booker T has expressed his belief that Ricky Starks, an AEW wrestler, would achieve considerable success should he make a transition to WWE. He hinted that Starks’ influence could be similar to that of a former NXT World Champion.
Booker T made these comments while noting that Starks hadn’t participated in any AEW event since March. Starks had also been withdrawn from all GCW affairs by Tony Khan, AEW’s president, due to a controversial remark allegedly made by EFFY.
During a recent episode of his podcast, “Hall of Fame,” Booker T deliberated on the potential of Starks transitioning from AEW to WWE. He stated:
“Do I think he can fit into NXT right now? Absolutely. I mean, just like Ethan Page, he could make a significant impact on the roster. He possesses an engaging personality. He is a wrestler with potential. As for Ricky Starks’ performance, I haven’t had the opportunity to watch him perform in the ring extensively. But much like when Ethan Page joined NXT, I had little knowledge of him too. Yet, he quickly proved his worth, almost immediately… Starks, if he decided to switch, he would do the same.”
Ethan Page, after departing from AEW, made his debut in WWE NXT earlier this year, quickly clinching the NXT World Championship at the Heatwave event within a few weeks.
Starks is known to maintain a close friendship with WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. There have been reports suggesting that members of the AEW fraternity believe Starks no longer wishes to remain with the company.
Following the sacking of CM Punk, AEW reportedly told Starks that he should consider himself fortunate to still be employed. More details about the conversation can be found here.