With Triple H now calling the shots in WWE, the product is hotter now than it has been for several years. That's hurt AEW as the alternative to WWE is no longer as good as WWE itself, a problem for a company which has billed itself as being just that: an alternative.
This extends to talent as well; for a time, they were quick to jump ship from WWE to AEW. Now, we're seeing them go the other way!
Recently, it's been reported that Cody Rhodes' old friend, Ricky Starks, is gearing up to sign with WWE after his contract expired in February. That's yet to be confirmed, but AEW President Tony Khan cryptically addressed the situation during the post-AEW Revolution media scrum (h/t WrestlingNews.co).
"I don't know what the rumour is. Ricky is part of AEW. Ricky is definitely still under contract in AEW. No, I haven't seen that [rumour about his contract]. But obviously, we were doing Revolution today. So it came out very good. And Ricky was a big part of Sting’s run. He was Sting’s first match, in AEW teaming with Brian Cage against Darby [Allin] and staying at Revolution three years ago. And then, to come back here three years later, of course, Ricky and Big Bill, I'm very grateful."
"I've said that to Ricky too, both right after the match and since, [I am] very grateful. Ricky and Big Bill, what great World Tag Team Champions, and what a great match for Sting and Darby to win the World Tag Team Championships. Ricky was there at the beginning three years ago, then a huge part of the title change, which set the stage for tonight. He's been here for some of the big moments. I'm very excited about having him here. He's definitely part of AEW and has been a big part of Sting's final run."
So, Starks is under contract to AEW. For now, at least.
Khan was also asked where things stand with Kenny Omega following a recent bout of diverticulitis which has left him sidelined indefinitely. The former AEW World Champion has been advertised for shows taking place in Canada later this month, but the AEW President has now confirmed those listings were incorrect.
"I don't think it would be fair at all to create that expectation that Kenny Omega would be cleared by then. I really appreciate the question. I'm very optimistic Kenny will be coming back. But I don't know the exact date. And I think that's an aggressive timetable. But absolutely. Kenny's want to AEW’s great stars, and we can't wait to have him back as soon as possible. I don't think it would be fair to create the expectation he'd be clear by them though. Thanks for asking."
Stay tuned for updates as we have them.