Ricky Starks’ Shocking Arrival in NXT Sends Shockwaves Through Pro Wrestling
On the evening of February 14, 2023, the professional wrestling world was left in a state of awe and surprise as Ricky Starks, a former standout in All Elite Wrestling (AEW), made a stunning appearance on WWE’s NXT program, merely hours after his release from AEW.
Among those left reeling by Starks’ sudden arrival was NXT Women’s Champion Roxanne Perez, who has had a long-standing relationship with the wrestler.
A Moment of Sheer Excitement
"It was awesome!" exclaimed Perez in an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital. "I have known Ricky Starks since I was literally 15 years old. He came up in Texas as I did, so we definitely ran into each other a lot."
Perez, who is on the cusp of making history by capturing her third NXT Women’s Championship at Vengeance Day on Saturday, was completely unaware of Starks’ impending appearance.
"I didn’t even know he was going to be there," she said. "I didn’t even see him walk out into the crowd. I saw it on the TV screen with everybody else and that made me so happy because he’s awesome. He’s such a great person and I think he deserves everything."
A Future Filled with Possibilities
Starks’ arrival in NXT has sparked a wave of excitement among fans and within the locker room alike. His exceptional talent and charisma have many speculating about the potential impact he could have on the brand.
"To see him here now and hopefully maybe get to work with him, that’s going to be awesome," said Perez.
A Journey of Redemption
Starks had been absent from AEW television since March 2022, and his release from the company came as a surprise to many. However, his subsequent appearance in NXT has been seen as a sign of resilience and determination.
"If NXT is the future of professional wrestling, well guess what?" declared Starks to the NXT crowd. "You need an absolute superstar of the future. If this is the hottest brand, well you need the hottest free agent right now, baby."
Vengeance Day Beckons
Roxanne Perez will face her toughest challenge yet at Vengeance Day, as she aims to regain the NXT Women’s Championship in a fatal four-way match against current champion Giulia, Bayley, and Cora Jade.
"It’s going to be a really tough match," Perez said. "Giulia is amazing, Bayley is obviously one of the best in the world, and Cora is young and hungry. But I’m confident. I know I have what it takes."
A New Era for NXT
The arrival of Ricky Starks in NXT marks a new chapter for the brand. His addition to the roster brings a wealth of experience and star power, and it will be fascinating to see how he integrates into the NXT landscape.
NXT Vengeance Day is set to take place on Saturday, February 25th, at 6 p.m. ET in Washington, D.C. Don’t miss this historic event as Roxanne Perez seeks to make history and Ricky Starks embarks on a new chapter in his illustrious career.
