Why WWE Didn't Mention Ricky Starks By Name During His NXT Debut Revealed

Ricky Starks made his WWE debut on the February 11 episode of WWE NXT, appearing through the crowd to cut a promo about the revolution being televised from the WWE Performance Center.

Starks never mentioned his own name, nor did the NXT commentary team, although the fans in attendance did chant "Ricky Starks." Following the filing of trademarks for 12 new in-ring names, there were fears that Starks may end up being called Osiris Griffin or another name but that may not be the case.

According to Fightful Select, Ricky Starks is listed as 'Ricky Starks' on WWE's internal roster. It is believed within the industry that the only reason he wasn't referred to as 'Ricky Starks' during his NXT debut was that the 34-year-old's appearance came together so quickly that WWE worked on the side of caution due to an agreement to utilise Starks' names and trademarks not being in place. Starks owns the trademarks to his name and his 'Absolute' moniker and WWE often organises deals to license the trademarks from talents if they don't undergo a name change.

Starks is expected to appear at Saturday night's Vengeance Day special. He reportedly debuted on NXT instead of the main roster due to much of the main roster creative through WrestleMania 41 already being worked out.

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