WWE Reportedly Eyes AEW Star for NXT

WWE's developmental brand, NXT, is reportedly keen on signing Ricky Starks when his AEW contract expires, adding another chapter to the ongoing talent exchange between the two wrestling promotions.

NXT has become a popular destination for former AEW stars, with several making significant contributions to the brand. Brian Pillman Jr. reinvented himself as Lexis King, Shawn Spears retained his AEW persona despite previous appearances as Tye Dillinger, and Ethan Page is the current NXT Champion. This recent trend has led to speculation about the potential arrival of another AEW standout, Ricky Starks.

According to Fightful Select, WWE has expressed significant interest in signing Starks when his AEW contract concludes, a date that has been the subject of much debate. Some sources claimed his contract ended in March, a rumour that AEW President Tony Khan personally refuted, stating that Starks was under contract for a longer period. However, further speculation arose when social media reports suggested his contract expired in July, a claim yet to be confirmed or denied by either party.

Despite some fans' claims that Starks hasn't fully realised his potential in AEW, "Absolute" has enjoyed a successful run, holding the FTW Championship for over a year between 2021 and 2022. He transitioned into a face role and challenged for the AEW World Championship in late 2022. Notable achievements include back-to-back wins over Chris Jericho, a victory over CM Punk in the 2023 Owen Hart Foundation Tournament, and the AEW Tag Team Championship victory in October 2023.

However, Starks' absence from television since the March 30 episode of AEW Collision has fuelled speculation about his future with the promotion, adding weight to the rumours of his potential move to NXT.

While the details surrounding Starks' contract status and potential move to NXT remain unclear, the reported interest from WWE is a significant development in the ongoing talent exchange between the two wrestling giants. Whether Starks ultimately chooses to join NXT remains to be seen, but his potential arrival would be a major coup for WWE, adding a talented and popular wrestler to their developmental roster.