Ricky Starks Requested AEW Release Amid Fallout with Tony Khan

Ricky Starks has been noticeably absent from AEW since the March 30 episode of AEW Collision, and it seems there’s more going on behind the scenes than meets the eye.

According to Ibou of WrestlePurists, Starks has requested his release from AEW but has been denied by Tony Khan. Now, he’s biding his time, working independent dates to keep his name in the spotlight.

“At the end of the day, things happened to where he’s on the outs with AEW right now,” Ibou explained. “There’s a lot of things, most of it will never be reported. But ultimately there’s a falling out there, and it is what it is. He’s asked for a release, Tony won’t give it to him, and he’s just going to wait out the rest of his deal. He’s going to stay relevant by working indy dates and good for him. I’m happy for him. That’s just gonna be the situation in the meantime.”

Starks, a former AEW World Tag Team Champion, has been at odds with the company due to undisclosed issues. His situation reportedly worsened after his removal from several GCW events last year, following controversial comments by Effy about Tony Khan and his father, Shad Khan.

While AEW seems unwilling to let Starks go, his contract will eventually expire. WWE is reportedly very interested in bringing Starks into NXT whenever he becomes available, which could be a game-changing move for the wrestling star.

For now, Ricky Starks is stuck in limbo, locked into a deal with a company that doesn’t seem to have plans for him, while WWE is reportedly waiting with open arms. Whether AEW lets him walk or forces him to ride out his contract, one thing is clear—Starks isn’t going away quietly. The only question left is where he’ll make his next big move.

Please credit Ringside News if you use the above transcript in your publication.