Big Hint New WWE Star Could Keep Ring Name

A new WWE star could avoid major changes.

On February 11, the wrestling world was left stunned when Ricky Starks strolled onto WWE television during NXT. While the star had been expected to eventually join the company, his AEW departure had only been confirmed 24 hours earlier.

The former Tag Team Champion had seemingly been at odds with the company for several months having not been featured on television since March 2024, despite insisting he was ready to work.

AEW star Thunder Rosa later admitted she was very surprised at the debut, before praising Starks’ work ethic and all-round ability.

Ricky Starks Could Keep Name In WWE

As reported by Fightful Select, WWE was very careful not to use Starks’ name on television or in any subsequent media. The report reiterated that the deal between the two sides came together very quickly, but he is officially part of the roster.

Interestingly, the star is listed as “Ricky Starks” internally, hinting that he might keep the name after all.

The company often works on “sync agreements” that allow them to use names and other trademarks while talent is under contract. With the deal to sign Starks being done so quickly and so late in the day, the company was “working on the side of caution” by not mentioning him by name.

While there has been no official comment on plans for the star, Ricky Starks is no longer being advertised for an indie booking on February 15. The news raised eyebrows as not only does WWE usually allow new signings to complete any existing bookings, but the event is on the same day as NXT Vengeance Day.