Recent developments have stirred controversy within the professional wrestling community, as All Elite Wrestling (AEW) has withdrawn rising star Ricky Starks from his scheduled appearances with Game Changer Wrestling (GCW). Starks, who made a surprise debut at GCW’s “Dream On” event on November 23rd, appeared poised for a high-profile program with Matt Cardona. However, GCW subsequently announced that Starks would no longer be participating in their upcoming events.
Speculation arose regarding the circumstances surrounding AEW’s decision. Reports emerged suggesting a potential connection to comments made by GCW personality Effy on his podcast, wherein he critiqued AEW President Tony Khan’s booking of Hammerstein Ballroom in close proximity to GCW’s own event at the venue. Effy’s remarks, which some interpreted as alluding to Khan’s familial wealth, allegedly prompted AEW’s response.
Effy has now addressed the situation on The Game Changer Weekly podcast, refuting responsibility for Starks’ removal from GCW while acknowledging the potential implications of his statements. He expressed support for Starks’ career, emphasizing that the matter is primarily between Starks and AEW. Effy also highlighted Starks’ notable absence from AEW programming despite being under contract with the company.
Furthermore, Effy addressed Starks’ recent interview with Chris Van Vliet, in which Starks expressed frustration regarding his limited AEW television time. Effy posited that AEW’s subsequent disclosure of Starks’ contract extension, which now extends through spring 2025, was a deliberate response to these comments. He suggested that he is being utilized as a scapegoat to divert attention from AEW’s management of Starks’ career.
Effy maintained his position on his original comments, acknowledging the potential ramifications of his outspoken nature within the independent wrestling scene. He recognized that his decision to remain independent allows him to be perceived as a provocateur without fear of repercussions from major wrestling promotions.
