AEW Stars Miro, Malakai Black, and Ricky Starks Released from Contracts Without Non-Compete Clauses
In the wake of a series of WWE talent departures, the wrestling industry has seen a significant shift in AEW rosters. According to recent reports from Fightful Select, three AEW stars—Miro, Malakai Black, and Ricky Starks—have recently left the company. Notably, these athletes were released without non-compete clauses, allowing them to potentially transition to other promotions with more flexibility.
Malakai Black’s AEW Departure
Malakai Black, a mainstay in AEW with a contract potentially extending into 2027, has officially left the promotion. This move follows a storyline change where he pivoted from the House of Black to the Hounds of Hell, a group that includes Brody King, Buddy Matthews, and Julia Hart. Black’s departure hints at a shift in creative direction within AEW, indicating that the promotion is open to new talent narratives.
Miro’s Uncertain Future in AEW
Miro’s departure from AEW is somewhat surprising, as he had only a handful of matches in 2023 and had not been mentioned in company creative circles for almost six months. Despite signing a multi-year contract extension in 2022, Miro’s time with AEW came to an end, suggesting that he may have sought a new opportunity or that the promotion decided to let him go.
Ricky Starks’ Release from AEW
Ricky Starks’ exit from AEW follows a series of events. In late 2023, Starks asked for his release, and while AEW picked up his option year, he was not featured on television. His comments about the promotion’s champion, Effy, led to his removal from Grand Challenge Wrestling (GCW) events. Starks’ victory in the DEFY World Championship against KENTA just before his release marks an impressive final moment in his AEW career.
Implications for Future Talent Movements
The release of Miro, Malakai Black, and Ricky Starks without non-compete clauses opens up possibilities for them to join other promotions, including WWE. This could lead to a major shake-up in the wrestling industry, as these stars have significant followings and experience. The absence of non-compete clauses means that their next move is now a matter of timing and negotiation rather than contractual restrictions.
The Future of AEW
AEW’s recent decisions regarding talent management highlight shifts in the company’s approach to contracts. While the departure of these stars is a significant loss, it also allows the promotion to pivot its focus to other aspects of its work, potentially leading to new creative opportunities and talent acquisitions.
Conclusion
The release of Miro, Malakai Black, and Ricky Starks from AEW without non-compete clauses is a noteworthy development in the wrestling world. Their exits could signal a new era for AEW, as the promotion seeks to adapt and evolve in the competitive landscape of professional wrestling. Fans, analysts, and competitors alike will be closely watching the future moves of these talented wrestlers.
We invite you to share your thoughts on this development and predict the next moves of these wrestlers. Join the conversation in the comments below!