WWE vs AEW: Ricky Saints Details Key Operational Differences Between Companies

One Big Thing

Former AEW star Ricky Starks, now known as Ricky Saints in WWE NXT, shares insights on the structural differences between WWE and AEW’s behind-the-scenes operations.

Key Details

• Saints debuted on WWE NXT on February 11, 2024
• He officially signed his NXT contract on February 18
• The former AEW World Tag Team Champion revealed his new ring name as Ricky Saints

Direct Quotes

Speaking on Busted Open After Dark, Saints explained:

“What I’m seeing is a place that already has developed a system — to be placed in a system is way different than being in the process of developing a system.”

Why It Matters

Saints’ comparison offers rare insight into the operational differences between wrestling’s two largest companies:

• WWE operates as an established system with clear processes
• AEW continues to develop its organizational structure as a newer company
• These differences impact talent experience and show production

By The Numbers

• WWE: 50+ years of organizational experience
• AEW: Founded in 2019
• Saints spent 3+ years in AEW before joining WWE

The Bottom Line

Saints describes WWE NXT as a “well oiled machine” with established processes, contrasting with AEW’s evolving organizational structure. This insight helps fans understand the different approaches both companies take to producing professional wrestling content.

What do you think about Saints’ assessment of both companies? Share your thoughts in the comments below.