Ricky Starks made a rare in-ring appearance at a House of Glory live event, and the crowd made their feelings known with a loud and clear message. During Starks’ match, fans erupted into a “F*** TK” chant—a direct shot at AEW President Tony Khan. Despite being one of AEW’s most promising stars, Starks has not been seen in AEW programming since March of last year.
The chant reflects growing discontent among AEW fans, who have been eager to see Starks back on the company’s programming. Once positioned as a future main eventer in the company, Starks’ career came to a halt in March 2024, after he and Big Bill lost the AEW World Tag Team Championships to Darby Allin and Sting.
Starks was pulled from a planned appearance at Game Changer Wrestling (GCW) last year, despite not being used by AEW. It was later reported that Tony Khan ordered Starks’ removal from the show after a comment made by EFFY about Khan’s father. Not only was Starks pulled from the event, but it was later stated that he would not be allowed to participate at future GCW shows.
Ricky Starks Reportedly Denied Release from AEW
Starks himself has addressed his absence in interviews and though he has theories, has not been given a reason as to why he’s not being used. It remains to be seen if Starks ever competes for AEW again, but fans are certainly frustrated with Khan’s decision to not use the former World Tag Team Champion.
AEW Pulls Ricky Starks Merch Amid Wrestler’s Hiatus