5 Directions for Ricky Starks if he joins WWE
Ricky Starks is heavily rumored to be heading to WWE in the near future. Although he is currently signed to AEW, The Absolute One has not made any appearances in the Jacksonville-based promotion since March 2024. The former FTW Champion is allegedly not on the same page with the company's booking team, which currently has no plans to bring back Starks into the fold.
Despite being one of the most charismatic stars on the roster, Ricky Starks has not received a consistent push in the main event picture. With his impressive performances against veterans like CM Punk and Bryan Danielson, The Absolute One showcased that he could hang with the very best inside the squared circle.
Unfortunately, Tony Khan has not been able to capitalize on Starks' undeniable talent. While he did not get enough moments to shine in the Jacksonville-based promotion, WWE could give Stroke Daddy a platform to prove his worth to the world.
The 34-year-old star already has a few connections to the Stamford-based promotion, and they can come into play if he leaves AEW in the future. In this article, let's look at five directions for Ricky Starks if he joins WWE:
#5. Ricky Starks could join forces with Cody Rhodes in WWE
Ricky Starks is extremely close to Cody Rhodes behind the scenes. The Absolute One has appreciated The American Nightmare on multiple occasions, expressing his gratitude towards Rhodes for giving him a chance early in his AEW career. While they were presented as enemies in All Elite Wrestling, the dynamic between Rhodes and Starks could be a lot different if the latter were to join WWE.
The 34-year-old star could debut in the Stamford-based promotion as an ally to the current Undisputed WWE Champion. For someone who is currently surrounded by numerous opponents, The American Nightmare desperately needs someone like Starks to be in his corner.
Working with an established star like Rhodes would help bring The Absolute One into the spotlight. The former member of Team Taz could remain a trustworthy partner to the SmackDown Superstar for some time before eventually turning his back on Rhodes down the line.
#4. Ricky Starks could feud with Seth Rollins
Seth Rollins is a WWE loyalist. The Visionary does not appreciate when a rival company tries to upstage the Stamford-based promotion. In the past, The Architect has taken several shots at AEW.
From Cody Rhodes to CM Punk, any top star jumping ship from AEW to WWE has found himself on the radar of The Visionary. The next AEW star to join that list could be Ricky Starks, who would greatly benefit from working with the former Shield member.
The Revolutionary could be a great pick for The Absolute One's first feud in the Sports Entertainment juggernaut. Known to be a great in-ring performer, Rollins could bring out the best in Starks inside the squared circle. Considering his onscreen hate towards AEW stars, Seth Rollins would gladly accept the chance to tear apart the former AEW World Tag Team Champion.
#3. The Absolute One could dethrone Bron Breakker
Bron Breakker is currently in his second reign as the Intercontinental Champion. The Dog of WWE has been presented as a dominant force on the main roster, defeating numerous top talents like Sami Zayn, Jey Uso, and Ilja Dragunov.
If Ricky Starks were to join WWE in the near future, Bron Breakker could be one of his first targets. While it is difficult to contain a lethal performer like Breakker, a master strategist like Starks could outsmart the 27-year-old star inside the squared circle.
Stroke Daddy could utilize his experience to decimate the reigning Intercontinental Champion. If Starks intends to create an impact upon his potential arrival in WWE, winning the Intercontinental Title would be the way to go.
#2. Ricky Starks could make his debut appearance in a segment with The Rock
As the WrestleMania season approaches, The Rock is expected to return to WWE TV anytime soon. With The Bloodline storyline in full swing, The People's Champion is expected to remain active in pro wrestling for a considerable time.
If The Brahma Bull stays in the fold till early 2025, his path could cross with Ricky Starks. As someone who has been compared with The Great One several times, Starks could stun his fans and critics alike by confronting The Rock in his debut appearance.
While the possibility of The Rock vs. Stroke Daddy seems minimal, the two may engage in some fiery promo segments. Interrupting a legendary trash talker like The Final Boss in his debut appearance can be risky, and it will be intriguing to see if Starks is ready to make that bold choice.
#1. Ricky Starks could retire AJ Styles
After a brief absence, AJ Styles returned to WWE TV on the October 4, 2024, edition of Friday Night SmackDown. The thrill surrounding his return was shortlived, as the former WWE Champion suffered a Lisfranc injury during his match against Carmelo Hayes.
As per reports, The Phenomenal One was supposed to kick off a retirement angle in his latest return to the blue brand. Unfortunately, Styles' untimely injury has forced the creative team to postpone those plans.
With Styles not having much time left in the squared circle, WWE has seemingly begun the search for a deserving opponent who could help him ride off into the sunset. Interestingly, Ricky Starks ticks all the boxes to be AJ's final opponent.
Styles would be eager to pass the torch to a younger star on his way out of pro wrestling. Considering his hunger for being a top player in the industry, Stroke Daddy would be honored to get the rub from The Phenomenal One.
Retiring a legendary figure like AJ Styles would do wonders for Ricky's career, allowing the latter to instantly cement his spot as a main event talent in the Stamford-based company.