NJPW President, Takami Ohabri questioned Ricky Starks’ respect after Starks seemingly disrespected Jushin Liger after his Owen Hart Cup win.
Starks, who has been a fan-favourite since his debut in AEW last Summer, won the Owen Hart Foundation Memorial Tournament Final match against CM Punk through nefarious means, holding onto the ropes as he rolled up his opponent for the victory.
While some saw this as a heelish technique, Starks took things further by blatantly disrespecting Jushin Thunder Liger, a New Japan Pro-Wrestling legend who presented the Owen Cup to the tournament winner. NJPW President Takami Ohbari was among those who took notice, who took to Twitter to say, “Where is your respect?” in response to a video of Starks’ post-match celebration.
Liger was present for the episode of Collision following an invitation by Tony Khan, who extended the offer due to Liger’s partnership and rivalry with Owen Hart from 1987 to 1991. While some fans are clamouring for a match between Liger and Starks, Liger’s retirement from in-ring competition in 2020 makes it unlikely.
However, if NJPW does want someone to wrestle Starks on Liger’s behalf, many names within the company’s junior heavyweight division could be available at the G1 Climax 33. The G1 Climax 33 tournament began on July 15th and will conclude on August 13th.
Where is your respect? https://t.co/BQna7UkKVB
— 大張高己/Takami Ohbari (@TAKAMIOHBARI) July 16, 2023
What’s Next For Ricky Starks In AEW?
As for Ricky Starks, following his Owen Hart Cup win, his next move is uncertain, but he does seem to be lined up to feud against Punk coming out of his tournament victory. With his win on Saturday night, Starks became the third man in AEW history to defeat Punk in a singles match, joining MJF and Jon Moxley.