Ricky Starks Clarifies Decision to Avoid Indies Immediately After AEW Television Absence

Ricky Starks’ status in AEW is currently unclear, as he has been absent from television since the March 30 episode of AEW Collision. He also didn’t return to the independent circuit right away, and he has now explained the reason for that decision.

While speaking to Chris Van Vliet, Ricky Starks explained his reasoning for not returning to the independent wrestling scene immediately after AEW took him off television. He explained that while many suggested he take indie bookings during his time away, it wasn’t the direction he wanted to pursue.

The Absolute noted that he loves the indie scene but that after working hard to climb up in his career, going backwards to the indies didn’t feel right. He has been focused on his goals and planning his future, so going back to the indies wasn’t part of his plan.

“Everyone says, ‘You should have taken indie bookings anytime you wanted.’ But that’s not what I wanted. It wasn’t necessarily about just going to the indies. There’s nothing wrong with the indies—I love the indies. But I guess I’m on a journey where, when you’re climbing the stairs and you’re just going up, having to come back down is kinda jarring. I’m so hyperfocused on my goals and how my life is planning out that figuring it all out has been a challenge.”

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Starks noted that in the past he would take any opportunity that came his way, but now, if he decides to wrestle on the indies again, it will be because he wants to and only for shows that he’s interested in. He now has more control over his choices and he wants to choose wisely.

“The other reason I haven’t done the indies is because if I’m coming back to them, I’m doing it because it’s something I want to do. Before, it was all about hustling and taking whatever came my way. This time, I have control over it, and I’m only going to do the indies that I’m genuinely interested in.”

Ricky Starks made his in-ring return after five months and defeated Kody Lane at Glory Pro Wrestling on November 24th and he has more dates lined up, including his HOG debut next year. While it’s unclear if he will make his AEW return, Starks is focusing on his indie run in the meantime and fans simply want what’s best for him.

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