AEW (All Elite Wrestling) has been home to some of the most talented wrestlers in the world, bringing fans intense rivalries, emotional storylines, and high-quality in-ring action. However, over the past few months, there have been several surprising releases and exits from AEW, including three high-profile superstars: Miro, Ricky Starks, and Malakai Black. The reasons behind their releases have raised a lot of questions among fans, with many wondering what led to these decisions.
In this article, we’ll provide an in-depth look into the backstage update on the reasons behind the AEW releases of these stars, the potential impact on AEW, and what the future might hold for them.
Who Are Miro, Ricky Starks & Malakai Black?
Before diving into the specifics of their releases, let’s take a quick look at who these superstars are and why their departures have caused such a stir in the wrestling world.
Miro
Miro, formerly known as Rusev in WWE, joined AEW in 2020 and quickly became a fan favorite. His powerhouse persona, combined with his charismatic character work, earned him a large following. Miro’s most notable storyline was his time as the TNT Champion, where he established himself as one of the top heels in AEW. Despite early success, his AEW run seemed to stall in the latter part of his tenure.
Ricky Starks
Ricky Starks made a splash in AEW with his slick microphone skills and natural charisma. A former member of Team Taz, Starks quickly made an impact, even capturing the FTW Championship. His blend of athleticism and storytelling made him one of AEW’s breakout stars. However, fans were left puzzled when he was released, as many felt he had more to offer in the promotion.
Malakai Black
Malakai Black (formerly Aleister Black in WWE) made his AEW debut with an incredible entrance and immediately became a key figure in the promotion’s dark, mysterious faction, the House of Black. His in-ring ability and eerie character work were praised by both fans and critics alike. However, after several months of tension within AEW’s creative direction, he too was granted his release.
Backstage Reasons Behind AEW Releases
1. Creative Differences and Lack of Direction
One of the most significant factors behind these releases is believed to be creative differences. AEW has built its reputation on being a promotion that listens to its talent and offers them creative freedom. However, some wrestlers, including Miro, Ricky Starks, and Malakai Black, reportedly felt that their storylines were not progressing as they had hoped.
Miro’s Creative Frustration:
- Reports suggest that Miro was unhappy with his direction within AEW after his TNT Championship reign ended. Despite his popularity, AEW’s creative team failed to provide him with consistent, high-profile storylines, which led to his frustration.
- Miro himself has hinted at feeling underutilized, and some backstage reports claim he wasn’t being used to his full potential, especially after his reign as TNT Champion.
Ricky Starks’ Unfulfilled Potential:
- Starks’ rise to prominence was cut short, and it was reported that he was not given the same opportunities to shine as some of AEW’s other stars. Many fans felt his potential was being wasted, which led to backstage tensions.
- Insider reports also indicate that Starks was frustrated with the lack of high-profile matches and his somewhat stagnant role within the promotion. Despite his immense talent, his storylines seemed to lack depth.
Malakai Black’s Character Stagnation:
- Malakai Black’s debut was a massive moment for AEW, with many expecting him to be one of the top stars in the company. However, over time, his faction, the House of Black, struggled to find its footing.
- Creative decisions for Black’s character reportedly shifted, and his opportunities were inconsistent, which led to his decision to request his release.
2. Injuries and Personal Health Issues
Another factor influencing the decision to release these stars was their health. Wrestling is physically demanding, and injuries are common. Both Miro and Malakai Black have suffered from injuries during their time with AEW.
Miro’s Injuries:
- Miro dealt with several injury-related issues during his AEW run. Although he was sidelined for a time, the prolonged absence may have led to AEW reevaluating his role within the company.
- Some backstage reports indicate that Miro’s injuries, combined with his frustration over his creative direction, may have contributed to his decision to ask for his release.
Malakai Black’s Mental Health Struggles:
- Malakai Black has been open about his struggles with mental health and personal issues, which some reports claim played a role in his departure. There were rumors that Black was feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about his future in AEW due to these challenges.
- Reports suggest that AEW was supportive of Black, but his personal struggles may have affected his decision to leave.
3. Contractual Disagreements and Negotiations
Wrestlers are signed to various contract lengths, and AEW has a unique approach to how they handle their talent. In the case of Ricky Starks, Miro, and Malakai Black, there were contractual disagreements that led to their releases.
Miro’s Contract Status:
- Miro’s contract was reportedly nearing its end, and AEW was reluctant to offer him a new deal, especially given the concerns about his booking and injury history.
- This led to Miro deciding that it might be best to move on and explore other opportunities in the wrestling world.
Ricky Starks’ Contract Disputes:
- Starks, while still under contract, was reportedly in talks with AEW about renegotiating his deal. However, some reports suggest that he felt his value was not being acknowledged by the promotion.
- As his contract situation grew more complicated, Starks ultimately decided it was time to part ways with AEW.
Malakai Black’s Unexpected Departure:
- Malakai Black’s release came as a shock to many, as there had been little indication of any serious issues between him and AEW management. However, reports indicated that he had asked for his release, citing personal reasons and a desire for a fresh start.
- It’s also rumored that AEW was willing to negotiate, but Black ultimately decided it was in his best interest to leave the promotion.
AEW’s Reaction and Future Plans
The release of these three stars has sparked a great deal of speculation, and AEW’s management has been publicly supportive of their decision to leave. In their statement, AEW officials mentioned that while they were disappointed to see these talented individuals go, they understood and respected their choices.
AEW’s Future Without Miro, Ricky Starks & Malakai Black:
- Talent Development: AEW will likely continue to develop new stars to fill the void left by Miro, Ricky Starks, and Malakai Black. The promotion’s emphasis on fresh talent means we can expect new faces to rise to the occasion.
- Focus on Existing Talent: AEW may shift its focus toward its established stars like Jon Moxley, Chris Jericho, CM Punk, and Kenny Omega. With a large roster already in place, AEW can afford to focus on further developing these stars and pushing them into major storylines.
- Impact on AEW Storylines: While the loss of these wrestlers may impact AEW’s creative landscape, the promotion has a deep roster and is known for finding ways to pivot quickly. Storylines will likely evolve, and new rivalries will emerge.
The releases of Miro, Ricky Starks, and Malakai Black have sent shockwaves through the wrestling community. Behind the scenes, creative differences, personal struggles, and contractual issues were key factors in these decisions. While it’s always sad to see talented performers leave, AEW’s future remains bright as it continues to develop new stars and build fresh rivalries. Fans will have to wait and see where these wrestlers end up, but one thing is for sure: the wrestling world is never short on surprises.
