Miro, Malakai Black and Ricky Starks released from AEW

AEW has released some of their top stars

On Monday, February 10th, AEW made headlines by announcing the immediate release of three prominent talents: Miro, Malakai Black and Ricky Starks.

This decision comes after years of reported frustration from the performers, who had been seeking their exits from the company for some time. New details about these releases have since emerged, shedding light on the circumstances behind the departures and the potential future plans of each wrestler.

According to a report from Fightful Select, all three wrestlers had been pushing for their releases for an extended period. Malakai Black, whose AEW deal reportedly could have kept him with the company until 2027, had been vocal about his desire to leave for quite a while.

Black’s release marks a significant change, as he was once considered a cornerstone of AEW’s House of Black faction. Meanwhile, Miro, formerly known as Rusev in WWE, had also been seeking to leave despite being healthy and cleared to compete. Interestingly, Miro hasn’t wrestled in AEW since 2023 due to creative stagnation, with no compelling storylines or matches pitched for his return.

Ricky Starks also faced his share of frustrations with AEW. Reports suggest that Starks first requested his release in 2023, but the company declined. Additionally, when his contract was nearing its expiration, Starks asked AEW not to pick up the extension option on his deal, but the company did so anyway.

Since then, Starks has made sporadic appearances in AEW while working through the remainder of his contract. With his release now granted, he is free to explore new opportunities.

Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of these releases is that they are effective immediately and, notably, do not include any non-compete clauses. This means that Miro, Malakai Black, and Ricky Starks are free to sign with other promotions as soon as they wish.

Speculation mill running high for all three AEW release

Naturally, speculation has turned toward WWE as a likely destination for all three performers. Malakai Black, who previously wrestled as Aleister Black in WWE, is already rumored to be part of WWE’s creative discussions and is expected to return soon. Known for his dark, enigmatic character and in-ring prowess, Black would seamlessly fit back into WWE programming.

Miro, best remembered for his WWE run as the “Bulgarian Brute,” is another strong candidate for a WWE return. During his time there, Miro achieved significant success, including a lengthy reign as United States Champion. A return to WWE could reignite his career and allow him to reclaim the spotlight.

Perhaps the most intriguing prospect is Ricky Starks. Known for his charismatic promos and in-ring abilities, Starks would be a natural fit for WWE’s sports-entertainment style. His close friendship with Cody Rhodes, who has publicly supported him, could pave the way for Starks to join WWE. With Rhodes reportedly advocating for Starks, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him positioned as a top free-agent acquisition.

With their releases finalized, the wrestling world eagerly awaits the next moves for Miro, Malakai Black and Ricky Starks, all of whom have the potential to make a major impact wherever they land.

Superstars released by AEW

• Miro
• Malakai Black
• Ricky Starks

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