Was Ricky Starks in WWE?

Have you ever wondered if Ricky Starks, the talented professional wrestler, has ever stepped foot in the world of WWE? Well, let’s dive into his career and find out!

The Rise of Ricky Starks

Ricky Starks, born on July 21, 1994, in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a charismatic and skilled wrestler known for his time in various promotions. Starks began his wrestling journey in 2012 and quickly caught the attention of fans and critics alike with his natural athleticism and undeniable charisma.

Starks’ career skyrocketed when he joined the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) in 2019. He made an immediate impact with his captivating promos and impressive in-ring performances. His unique blend of technical skill and showmanship quickly made him a fan favorite.

Was Ricky Starks in WWE?

Despite not being a part of WWE’s main roster, Ricky Starks did have a brief stint with the company.

NXT Tryout

In early 2017, Starks participated in a tryout at the WWE Performance Center alongside other aspiring wrestlers. Although he showcased his abilities during the tryout, he did not receive an immediate contract offer from WWE.

205 Live Appearance

Later that year, on July 11th to be precise, Ricky Starks appeared on WWE’s cruiserweight-focused show called “205 Live.” He competed against current WWE Superstar Hideo Itami (now known as KENTA) under the ring name “Ricky Martinez.” Despite displaying his impressive skills during this appearance, it did not lead to an extended contract with WWE.

The Success Beyond WWE

While Ricky Starks may not have had an extended run with WWE, his career has flourished outside the company.

Starks’ tenure in the National Wrestling Alliance proved to be a turning point in his career. He quickly became one of the promotion’s top stars, capturing the NWA World Television Championship and winning over fans with his captivating personality.

In 2020, Starks made waves when he signed with All Elite Wrestling (AEW), a rising wrestling promotion. His debut match against Cody Rhodes on AEW Dynamite was highly praised and showcased his exceptional skills as both a wrestler and entertainer.

Conclusion

While Ricky Starks had a brief appearance on WWE’s 205 Live, he did not have an extended run with the company. However, his success in other promotions such as NWA and AEW demonstrates his undeniable talent and ability to captivate audiences. Whether it be through his impressive in-ring performances or charismatic promos, Ricky Starks continues to make a name for himself in the world of professional wrestling.