Ricky Starks Dispels Misconception About Promos And Commentary

During a recent interview with Wrassle Rap AEW's Ricky Starks spoke about getting to work on commentary for the company.

He admitted there's a misconception that being a good promo means you can do that role as well and recalled learning to not be so longwinded from the other commentators.

"There's a misconception that just because you're charismatic and can cut a promo that you can also do commentary. They're not one and the same, at all," he said. "There's a lot of ebbs and flows, and a lot of stuff to commentary that people don't even think about. So, when you're out there and it's a show that is live and we have to move from one thing to another, and you can't say something, it's worrisome.

"The funny thing was, my first few times they would say a joke to me, and for me to get a response in I would wait a minute or two. By that point, we've already moved on, so I can't even make a retort to that. So, I found that out the hard way, and not be so longwinded. It's good working with Excalibur, and Taz, and Jericho, all these people they help me out. And I think they understand that I am trying the best I can."

When it comes to his own ability as a commentator, Ricky Starks admitted he doesn't think he is good. However, he believes that he's now found his own groove, and is not where he used to be.

"I don't think I am good by any means," Starks claimed. "But right now, I feel like I have found somewhat of a groove, still keeping my head above water. But, at the same time, I am definitely not where I want to be, but at least I am not where I used to be."

Ricky Starks then recalled getting the opportunity to commentate on AEW Rampage, which was a chance that Tony Khan gave him. Starks was surprised at that point but admitted he enjoys working under pressure.

"I was doing commentary before my neck injury as well, just to help me get practice for if I was to do any extra media stuff. Or I wanted to try out for a show and do commentary on that, stuff like that. So, I was always doing that, then after the neck injury it was like, 'hey, I am going to keep you on, obviously, keep doing commentary stuff, I can keep you as a manager type thing, and cut promos when you need to.'

"It wasn't until Rampage came when they needed a stand-in, and Tony was like, 'well, he's already been practicing, so he might as well do it.' I was like, 'what, hold on man, this is your national show, I was just doing commentary for Dark on YouTube.' I like pressure, I work very well under pressure, it was cool, I liked it."

If you use any quotes from this article, please credit Wrassle Rap with a h/t to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.