Folks, Ricky Starks didn’t just walk into WWE NXT—he strolled in, exuding the kind of confidence that says, “Yeah, I know I belong here.” And now? We’ve got some backstage details on how it all came together.
Let’s break it down:
1. WWE Knew the Crowd Would Explode
- Fightful Select reports that WWE expected the massive crowd reaction Starks got when he appeared during the steel cage setup on NXT.
- But here’s the weird part: nobody actually called him “Ricky Starks.” 🤨
- Why? No official reason, but some believe it has to do with WWE’s recent trademark filings. Translation? He might be getting a new name. (Oh boy.)
2. Why Did He Debut in NXT and Not the Main Roster?
- Many believe Starks is main roster ready right now.
- But according to WWE sources, WrestleMania 41 creative plans are already locked in.
- NXT, however, is “more fluid,” meaning they can work Starks into their storylines more easily. (In other words: NXT is the sandbox for Starks to play in before he gets the big call-up.)
3. How Fast Did This Deal Come Together?
- Ridiculously fast. WWE has reportedly been interested in Starks since December 2024 and were ready to sign him instantly if he became available.
- Fightful reports that WWE sources only found out he was appearing on NXT 30 minutes before the show started. (Talk about last-minute surprises!)
- Meanwhile, AEW sources already knew over the weekend that Starks was on the chopping block.
4. What Happens to the DEFY World Title?
- Yes, Starks is still the current DEFY World Champion.
- But nobody knows what’s happening with the title yet. WWE sometimes allows outside title defenses (see: NXT & TNA), but this could also mean a vacancy is coming soon.
Final Thoughts: Ricky Starks is a WWE Guy Now – But Under What Name?
Ricky Starks has all the tools to be a megastar in WWE. The only real question? Will he still be called Ricky Starks? Because if history tells us anything, we might be welcoming… “Richard Sparks” or “Rick Starkly” next week. (God help us.)
Either way? He’s here. And business just picked up.