Former AEW champion shows off ripped physique amid rumors of WWE move [Photo]
A top star and former champion from AEW offered a glimpse at their ripped physique amidst ongoing rumors surrounding a potential jump to WWE. The talent in question is Ricky Starks.
Ricky Starks has become a regular talking point among wrestling fans, owing to his lengthy hiatus from AEW programming. He was last seen in action in March and was knocked out of the World Tag Team Championship Tournament at the quarterfinal stage by Top Flight alongside his tag partner Big Bill.
Speculations have been running rampant for some time now about the 34-year-old star's status in the Tony Khan-led promotion, especially in light of rumors surrounding WWE's interest in acquiring his services. As conjecture regarding the career of Starks continues to flourish, the former World Tag Team Champion recently took to his Instagram story to share a photograph of himself, displaying his shredded physique.
Recent update on Ricky Starks' AEW contract status
Ricky Starks is easily one of AEW's most popular names at the moment, despite his lengthy absence from television. Given the promotion's underutilization of the Louisiana native as of late, several fans and industry veterans are of the view that Stroke Daddy could potentially depart for WWE after his deal runs out, favoring his chances under Triple H's creative leadership.
However, a recent update from Ibou of WrestlePurists on the status of Ricky Starks' All Elite contract suggests that it may be some time before the latter can make the jump to the sports entertainment juggernaut. The report reiterated that Starks is still under contract with All Elite Wrestling, and claimed that the Jacksonville-based company is not going to grant him a release.
"Ricky Starks is under [All Elite Wrestling] contract and will not be granted a release. I do not know why he keeps coming up in these conversations."
It remains to be seen what the future holds for Ricky Starks in the pro-wrestling business.