Ricky Starks lands a massive project amid WWE rumors
Ricky Starks' status is a hot topic in the wrestling world presently as his AEW absence continues. The 34-year-old announced a new collaboration today on social media.
'Absolute' Ricky Starks hasn't been seen in All Elite Wrestling since March 30, when he and Big Bill lost to Top Flight, thus ending their quest to regain the AEW World Tag Team Championship. Rumors abound regarding his current status, with many fans questioning why Tony Khan isn't using him on television.
Recent reports have indicated that Starks is expected to sign with WWE when his current contract expires. While it's currently unknown when his deal is up, the 34-year-old is staying busy outside the ring.
Starks took to Instagram today to reveal that he'd landed a gig with the iconic fashion brand, Prada. Starks shared a few images from a new Lugz commercial he seems to have taken part in.
"New Lugz commercial but with @prada #absolute Credit: @brainbuster_," wrote Starks.
You can check out his post below:
Ricky Starks reportedly has heat with higher-ups in AEW
Many fans were disappointed when Ricky Starks was paired with Big Bill in the tag team division, but the two made the most of it by winning the AEW World Tag Team Championship. However, Starks reportedly turned down a breakup angle that would have seen him feud with his partner.
The 34-year-old has been off television since then, and recent reports have claimed that he might have heat with higher-ups within All Elite Wrestling. Starks has had an up-and-down run in the Jacksonville-based promotion, but he remains a fan favorite in the singles division, making his absence even more frustrating for fans.
For his part, Tony Khan has been complimentary of Starks and expressed his desire to get the Absolute One back on TV. But with rumors of the former FTW Champion jumping ship to WWE after his current contract expires, it seems the two sides are at an impasse.
Whether Starks returns to AEW television before his deal expires remains to be seen.