The fallout from AEW pulling Ricky Starks from all future GCW appearances just took a turn as GCW promoter Brett Lauderdale addressed the controversy head-on during the GCW Weekly podcast. Lauderdale didnt hold back, shedding light on the messy situation that has left indie fans scratching their heads.
Its a weird situation because Ricky Starks is an independent contractor, Lauderdale began, hitting at the heart of a long-standing debate in pro wrestling. Theoretically, an independent contractor is independent and can work wh
erever they want. But in wrestling, these so-called independent contractors dont seem very independent. Theyre at the whim of an employer, making it seem like theyre employees.
The promoter shared his frustration, revealing he found out about Starks removal at the same time as the public. He also admitted to having zero direct communication with AEW, saying, Ive never talked to Tony Khan on the phone or via text in my entire life. Any AEW talent who has worked with usthose arrangements have always been between me and the talent. I assume everything is cleared on their end.
Lauderdale addressed the rumor mill swirling around Starks situation, including Effys controversial comments about Shad Khan potentially playing a role. However, he admitted hes unsure whats fact or speculation. Ive heard things in many directions, he said. Without hearing directly from AEW, its hard to tell whats real, whats not, or what people are just making up.
For GCW, the fallout isnt just disappointingits disruptive. Lauderdale acknowledged the frustration of having to pull advertised matches, saying, To promote something and have to pull it back is not ideal. But when you book television or contracted talent, you do it knowing this could happen for any reason at any time. It sucks, but its part of the deal.
The lack of clarity on whether AEWs decision was meant to punish Ricky Starks, GCW, or both has left Lauderdale feeling like hes in the dark. It doesnt feel great, he admitted. Id love to know if theres something we can do. Fans were looking forward to this, and to have it fall apart is disappointing.
This situation leaves fans with more questions than answers. Brett Lauderdales remarks shine a light on the challenges indie promotions face when working with contracted talent, and its clear the fallout from Ricky Starks removal has shaken things up. As we wait for AEW to address the situationor maybe stay silentone thing is certain: the drama isnt over.
What do you think of GCWs stance and AEWs decision to pull Ricky Starks? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
