Former AEW star Ricky Starks made a surprise appearance on WWE NXT just a day after his release from AEW. The unexpected appearance took place during the February 11th episode of NXT, leaving fans and commentators alike in awe.
As the ring crew prepared for the main event, a Steel Cage Match for the NXT North American Championship, Starks emerged from the crowd, microphone in hand. The crowd erupted with chants of "Ricky Starks" as he addressed the audience.
"If NXT is the future of professional wrestling, well guess what, you need an absolute superstar of the future," Starks declared. He continued,
"If this is the hottest brand, well you need the hottest free agent right now, baby. Everyone's been asking when the revolution will be televised again. Well, I'm right here, aren't I?"
Starks' appearance came just hours after reports confirmed his release from AEW, which had not been publicly explained. Despite his absence from AEW television since March 2024, Starks remained active in the independent circuit, even winning the top championship at Defy Wrestling over the weekend.
HE'S. HERE. #WWENXT pic.twitter.com/L7poR8dTRj
— WWE NXT (@WWENXT) February 12, 2025
The NXT crowd's reaction to Starks was overwhelmingly positive, with fans recognizing him as a game-changer for the brand. WWE commentator Vic Joseph expressed surprise at Starks' sudden appearance, highlighting the impact it had on the audience.
While Starks did not confirm his involvement in NXT's upcoming Vengeance Day event, his bold statement and electrifying presence have left fans speculating about his future in WWE. With his reputation as a dynamic performer and his recent success in the independent circuit, Starks is poised to make a significant impact on NXT and professional wrestling as a whole.
Ricky Starks' NXT debut marks a new chapter in his career, and fans eagerly await his next move. Will he become a regular fixture on NXT, or is there something bigger in store for the talented free agent? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the future of professional wrestling just got a lot more exciting.
