Several AEW rumors on Monday point to a trio of veterans who are departing the company immediately, including Ricky Starks. While another may point to a former NXT champion who could soon return to All Elite Wrestling.
A few years ago, AEW had turned into a legitimate competitor to WWE. They had a strong roster and offered the type of product disenfranchised WWE fans had wanted for so long. However, once founder Vince McMahon started to lose control of the company and was eventually ousted in 2023, WWE caught fire.
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Ironically, AEW has made many questionable decisions in that time and the popularity divide between the two is as wide as it’s ever been. It’s also led to many rumors about AEW talent being unhappy with their situation and looking to get out of their deals. Three of the most prominent names in the rumblings were Ricky Starks, Malakai Black, and Miro.
Well, on Monday, different reports throughout the day confirmed that all three men are departing the company this week. Black’s contract officially expired and he is not re-signing. While Fightful reported that Miro and Ricky Starks got the releases they had previously asked for. However, it may not be all bad news for AEW fans.
Is Keith Lee close to a long-awaited AEW return?
We have not seen former NXT champion Keith Lee in an AEW ring in over a year. Little is known about why he has been away, but the word around the industry is he has been dealing with a health issue that has sidelined his wrestling career.
But, it looks like his hiatus may be ending soon. PWInsider reported today that Lee was backstage at last week’s AEW taping in Georgia. One can only surmise he was there to potentially plot out plans for his eventual return to the ring.
While AEW is losing three talented performers this week, Keith Lee would be a big addition to the roster if he is indeed healthy. Furthermore, a social media post last week pointed to the company bringing in former WWE star Elias soon.
