Why Ricky Starks Deserves a Bigger Spotlight in AEW

In the fast-paced world of All Elite Wrestling (AEW), talent is everywhere. From seasoned veterans to rising stars, the company has done an excellent job of cultivating a diverse and exciting roster. However, when discussing wrestlers who deserve consistent TV time and a main event push, one name that keeps coming up is Ricky Starks.

Despite his natural charisma, in-ring ability, and star power, Starks has often been underutilized on AEW programming. But why? Is there any legitimate reason why Ricky Starks shouldn’t be featured weekly? Is there a valid argument against pushing him as one of AEW’s top stars?

Let’s dive into why Ricky Starks should be a centerpiece of AEW programming and why any argument against him falls flat.

Ricky Starks Has the “It” Factor

Professional wrestling has always been about more than just athletic ability. Wrestlers need to have a unique presence, the ability to cut a captivating promo, and the in-ring skills to back it up. Ricky Starks checks all those boxes.

• Charisma: Starks carries himself like a superstar. Whether he’s on the mic or simply walking down the ramp, he exudes confidence that makes fans take notice.
• Promo Skills: Few wrestlers in AEW can cut a better, more engaging promo than Starks. His delivery, intensity, and authenticity make him one of the most compelling talkers in the business.
• In-Ring Ability: Whether he’s wrestling a fast-paced, high-energy match or telling a story through his heel tactics, Starks has consistently put on strong performances against top-tier talent.

If he has everything needed to be a top guy, why isn’t AEW using him more prominently every week?

He Has Proven He Can Hang with the Best

AEW has no shortage of talented wrestlers, but Ricky Starks has already proved that he can hold his own against some of the best in the business. His resume includes:

• High-profile matches with top names like CM Punk, Bryan Danielson, MJF, and Chris Jericho
• Winning the 2022 AEW World Title Eliminator Tournament, proving that AEW once considered him a future main event player
• A heated feud with MJF, which showcased his ability to be a legitimate main-event-level talent
• Becoming one of the most entertaining FTW Champions in recent history

If he has already proven that he belongs in the top tier, what is stopping AEW from giving him consistent TV time and a legitimate push?

AEW Needs Fresh Main Event Stars

One of AEW’s biggest challenges has been developing new top stars outside of its established veterans like Kenny Omega, Jon Moxley, Chris Jericho, and Adam Cole. While AEW has done a fantastic job elevating MJF, the company needs to keep building fresh names to stay competitive in the wrestling landscape.

Starks fits perfectly into that role. He is young, marketable, and already has a strong fan following. AEW cannot afford to overlook the importance of investing in the future, and Starks represents the next generation of stars who can carry the company forward.

The Lack of a Legitimate Reason Not to Push Him

If someone were to argue that Ricky Starks doesn’t deserve to be featured weekly, what would the reasoning be?

• Is it because of his in-ring work? Unlikely. He has proven time and time again that he can work main event-quality matches.
• Is it because of his mic skills? Impossible. Starks is one of the best talkers in AEW, if not all of professional wrestling.
• Is it because of his look or character? Also unlikely. Starks looks like a star and carries himself like one.

The reality is, there is no legitimate reason why Ricky Starks should not be one of AEW’s weekly featured talents.

AEW’s Booking Decisions Have Been Questionable

One of the biggest criticisms AEW has faced in recent years is inconsistent booking. Talents like Miro, Andrade El Idolo, and Wardlow have all suffered from long stretches of inactivity, despite being fan favorites.

Unfortunately, Starks seems to be another victim of this inconsistent booking. One week, he is in a high-profile match, and the next, he is nowhere to be seen.

If AEW truly wants to establish long-term success, they cannot afford to misuse talents like Starks, who could be the face of the company for years to come.

The Fans Want It

Wrestling is a business driven by fan engagement, and Ricky Starks has the support of AEW’s audience. When his music hits, the crowd reacts. When he speaks, the fans listen.

• AEW fans want to see him succeed
• His merchandise sells well
• His social media engagement proves that he connects with the audience

Ignoring what the fans want is a mistake that AEW cannot afford to make.

AEW Risks Losing Starks if They Don’t Push Him

In the modern wrestling world, wrestlers have more options than ever before. With WWE, NJPW, and even free agency opportunities in major independent promotions, AEW risks losing Starks if they don’t capitalize on his star power.

• WWE has reportedly been interested in signing Ricky Starks in the past
• Other major promotions would easily offer him a top spot if he were to leave AEW
• AEW has already lost top talents due to mismanagement—they cannot afford to make that mistake with Starks

If AEW does not fully utilize him, it wouldn’t be surprising to see another company turn him into the major star AEW should have made him.

Conclusion: Ricky Starks Should Be a Weekly Fixture in AEW

There is no logical reason why Ricky Starks shouldn’t be featured weekly on AEW television. He has everything necessary to be a top star—charisma, promo ability, in-ring talent, and fan support.

AEW has a golden opportunity to establish Starks as one of the future faces of the company, and they cannot afford to waste it. If AEW truly wants to compete with WWE and other promotions, they must capitalize on talents like Ricky Starks before it’s too late.