Ricky Starks reportedly asked for his release from AEW months ago, but according to a recent report from Fightful Select, AEW President Tony Khan denied the request. Starks’ contract is set to expire in the spring, and while he remains blocked from working shows for GCW, he is still free to work other independent events.
The situation between Starks and AEW has reportedly been complicated, with a number of factors contributing to the current tension, though many of these details are expected to remain private. Starks is continuing to stay active in the wrestling scene by working independent dates, and his last AEW match took place on March 30, 2024, during an episode of Collision.
Despite his issues with AEW, Starks has not rejected any creative pitches from the company and was welcomed backstage at AEW Full Gear. His current status remains in flux, with fans now awaiting the outcome when his contract expires in the spring.