It’s been a week straight out of the soap opera playbook for AEW’s Ricky Starks. From backstage drama to scheduling whiplash, the “Absolute” one has managed to land on his feet—straight into a main event at House of Glory’s Watch the Throne event in Chicago. On January 17, 2025, Starks will step into the ring to challenge TNA star Mike Santana for the HOG World Championship, proving once again that independent wrestling knows how to stir the pot better than a Thanksgiving gravy recipe.
Santana’s Reign of Greatness
Mike Santana, who clocks in as HOG World Champion for over a year as of December 1, has been no slouch with the gold. Since toppling Matt Cardona in 2023, Santana has stacked victories like he’s building a wrestling Mount Rushmore. The list includes WWE Tag Team Champion Alex Shelley, ECW legend Masato Tanaka, and AEW star Jay Lethal. Now, the reigning champ will face Ricky Starks, whose mixture of charisma and sheer determination could finally end Santana’s dominance.
But don’t expect Santana to roll over; he’s been knocking down challengers with the precision of a sniper and the attitude of a man who knows his worth.
Starks’ Independent Detour
While there was some social media confusion around whether Starks could work independent shows after being pulled from GCW bookings, the answer seems to be clear: Starks isn’t grounded, he’s just being selective. AEW President Tony Khan removed Starks from GCW due to controversial comments made by GCW star Effy, but this hasn’t stopped Starks from making waves elsewhere.
Starks, whose AEW contract is set to expire in Spring 2025, is keeping busy on the indie circuit, likely as a strategic move to keep his stock rising. With no current AEW creative plans, this match is not just about gold—it’s about sending a message.
The Match
With Chicago as the backdrop, Starks will attempt to dethrone Santana in what promises to be a high-octane clash. The stakes couldn’t be higher: Santana’s reign is legendary, and Starks is looking for redemption and recognition on his own terms.
The fans? They’re in for a treat—two world-class athletes with something to prove, duking it out in one of wrestling’s most passionate cities.