Analysis of Ricky Starks' Victory and Post-Match Whipping Session in AEW Collision

The most recent episode of AEW Collision featured an intense match between CM Punk and Ricky Starks, culminating in a thrilling victory for Starks. The match drew considerable attention due to the unconventional twist featuring the legendary Ricky Steamboat as a ringside enforcer. In this article, we will delve into the strategic importance of this match and Starks' post-match actions, which not only secured his position as aheel but also set the stage for a potential future feud.

The Strategic Move

The decision to have Richie Starks defeat CM Punk in the 2023 Owen Hart Foundation Tournament was a shrewd move by the promotion. It not only provided the audience with a memorable and thrilling match but also served to escalate Starks' heel persona. The victory gave Starks a genuine connection with the fans and helped establish him as a fan-favorite heel, a role that can be seen as crucial for generating interest and maintaining fan engagement.

Impact on Starks' Heel Turn

Starks' post-match action against Richard "Steamboat" Fey was noteworthy. The enforcer's brutal whipping of Starks, followed by the assault on Steamboat, further solidified Starks' image as a heel, particularly as an 'irredeemable prick.' The raw emotion and realistic violence of the whipping session added a layer of credibility to Starks' heel turn, particularly when compared to pre-planned spot matches.

Entertaining Highlight of the Match

The spot where Starks whipped Richard Steamboat was not only entertaining but also well-executed. The immediacy and lack of pre-planning emphasized the visceral and authentic nature of Starks' actions. This real-time reaction led to a more impactful and credible heel turn, further solidifying Starks' position as a heels character. Moreover, it set the stage for potential future clashes between Starks and Punk, such as a one-off encounter or a full-blown feud.

Reflection and Future Prospects

This match and post-match incident serve as a critical milestone in Starks' career. It not only reinforced his heel persona but also provided a solid foundation for further storylines. The whipping session, in particular, was a masterful move in the context of pro-wrestling, as it struck a chord with the fans and added a significant punch to Starks' heel turn. As the storyline progresses, fans can look forward to seeing how the conflict between Starks and Steamboat may evolve, potentially leading to a bitter rivalry that could make for exciting and memorable matches.

Conclusion

The match between CM Punk and Ricky Starks on the most recent AEW Collision episode was a well-executed and entertaining segment. The post-match whipping of Steamboat further elevated Starks' heel persona, providing a satisfying and impactful conclusion. As the story unfolds, fans can anticipate a series of exciting matches and storylines, particularly the potential conflict between Starks and Steamboat. The strategic and effective use of such spots can greatly enhance the fanbase's engagement and loyalty towards the promotion.