Top AEW star to finally make WWE debut and face Cody Rhodes at Bash at the Berlin 2024? Exploring the possibility
When AEW was first launched in 2019 by Cody Rhodes and The Elite, it was one of the most exciting professional wrestling companies in the world. On the other hand, WWE's product was going through some tough times. As a result, many WWE Superstars who were not properly utilized in the company joined forces with the Jacksonville-based promotion.
However, the tide slowly started turning WWE's way after Triple H took over creative control of the company. The wrestling world was left stunned when Cody Rhodes returned to the Sports Entertainment juggernaut at WrestleMania 38. This was a major statement, as The American Nightmare was an EVP in the company and a key member of the founding team. Meanwhile, top AEW star Ricky Starks could also join WWE in the coming days.
A recent report from PWInsider claimed that WWE was interested in several AEW stars, including Ricky Starks. Stroke Daddy has been absent from Tony Khan's promotion since March 2024. The former World Tag Team Champion has reportedly rejected several creative ideas for his return and also has backstage heat due to his alleged interest in joining the Stamford-based company.
With WWE seemingly interested in him, the 34-year-old could likely join forces with the company in the coming days.
Starks and Cody Rhodes are friends in real life. The AEW star was in attendance when The American Nightmare won the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at WrestleMania 40. Moreover, Ricky made his AEW debut against Cody in June 2020, and it would be a great full-circle moment for Stroke Daddy if he makes his maiden in-ring appearance for the Stamford-based company against Rhodes.
Since Cody is currently without a challenger for the upcoming Bash in Berlin PLE, Ricky Starks would make a great fit, and given their history together, the two of them could deliver a classic match.
Konnan claims Britt Baker was responsible for Cody Rhodes' exit from AEW
Cody Rhodes' exit from AEW came as a surprise to fans. For years, many people believed that The American Nightmare had issues with The Elite, which led to his departure from Tony Khan's promotion. However, the SmackDown Superstar has denied these claims on many occasions.
In a recent episode of his Keepin' It 100 OFFICIAL podcast, wrestling veteran Konnan claimed that Dr. Britt Baker had issues with Cody's wife, Brandi Rhodes, which eventually led to the couple leaving AEW.
"One of the reasons that Cody left, amongst many, was that there were problems between Brandi and Britt. Tony always takes her [Baker] side; you'll find out one day," he said. [12:27-12:38]
Following his departure from AEW, Cody Rhodes went on to become the face of WWE. The American Nightmare finished his story at WrestleMania XL when he defeated Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship in a Bloodline Rules Match earlier this year.