Ricky Starks Addresses Absence from AEW and Clarifies Comeback Rumors

Ricky Starks, a standout in AEW, has been notably absent from the ring since his last match on the March 30th edition of Collision.

Recently, Starks took to his X/Twitter account to address speculation about his absence and his potential return. He made it clear that he hasn’t turned down any creative pitches regarding a comeback and emphasized that his situation is out of his control.

During a virtual signing for Highspots, Starks responded to comments from fans who suggested that he might end up working elsewhere. Laughing, he expressed his appreciation for the support and noted how much it means to him:

“(Laughs) 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.”

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Starks went on to clarify that he is healthy and capable of returning to the ring, but the decision of when he’ll be back on television is not up to him. Despite being ready to wrestle, he said he still hasn’t been given a clear answer as to why he’s not featured on TV. He also thanked fans who have reached out to check on his well-being:

“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?… I love ‘em.”

While Starks wishes he could give fans a more definitive explanation, he reiterated that the situation is out of his control. However, he remains committed to wrestling and is determined to find a way back:

“I wish I can give an answer (as to why I’m not on television). I’m healthy, I’m ready to get back in the ring… Sometimes it just isn’t up to me, I guess, as they say. So, I love wrestling and I’m gonna figure out a way to do it one way or another.”

Starks also touched on the emotional impact of receiving support from fans, admitting that reading their messages often brings him to tears. Despite the lack of clarity surrounding his absence, he remains optimistic and ready for whatever comes next.

As of now, Ricky Starks’ most recent match took place in May at a Big Time Wrestling event, where he defeated Q.T. Marshall. Starks’ last notable AEW appearance was in February, when he and Big Bill lost the AEW World Tag Team Championships to Sting and Darby Allin.