Former WWE star Ricochet opened up on “The Ariel Helwani Show” about his decision to leave WWE, revealing that he had mentally checked out from the company even before meeting his now wife and former WWE ring announcer, Samantha Irvin. This insight sheds new light on Ricochet’s complicated relationship with WWE and his subsequent rejuvenation in AEW.
Ricochet’s WWE Exit Was Not a Sudden Decision
Ricochet, known for his electrifying in-ring style and high-flying ability, signed with WWE in 2018 after making waves globally with New Japan Pro-Wrestling and Lucha Underground. Despite winning the Intercontinental and United States Championships, he revealed that he had already decided to leave WWE well before his personal life changed with meeting Samantha Irvin.
On “The Ariel Helwani Show,” Ricochet stated his departure wasn’t driven by external factors like title aspirations, but rather by his dwindling passion for WWE itself. He said, “I knew I was done with WWE long before I even met Samantha. The environment just wasn’t right for me anymore” [source].
Sources close to Ricochet confirmed that during the final months of his WWE tenure, his enthusiasm had severely declined, a sentiment he had quietly communicated to WWE officials as his contract neared expiration.
Love Lost and Found: How AEW Rekindled Ricochet’s Passion
Ricochet has been candid about how WWE’s creative direction and backstage atmosphere affected his love for wrestling negatively. In a candid exchange on social media, he admitted, “WWE ruined my love and passion for the sport that I grew up loving” [1].
In contrast, Ricochet described AEW as a “breath of fresh air” where he could rediscover the passion that made him fall in love with professional wrestling in the first place. AEW president Tony Khan has praised Ricochet for his work ethic and consistent performances since his debut at All In: London 2024, where Ricochet entered as a wild card contender.
According to a WWE insider, Ricochet’s frustration stemmed from the creative limitations imposed on him in WWE, as well as a feeling that he was often “boxed into a role that didn’t reflect his true talent.” This insider added, “AEW allowed Ricochet to express himself more freely in the ring and on the mic, which was something WWE never fully embraced.”
The Timeline: From WWE’s Sidelines to AEW’s Spotlight
Ricochet was officially written off WWE TV in June 2024 following a televised segment involving Bron Breakker, but remained under contract until June 30, 2024 [2]. During that time, there was still speculation among fans and insiders about whether he might return, as WWE seemingly left his storyline open-ended.
Ricochet later explained that WWE’s ambiguous approach was partly because negotiations were ongoing, but he had internally made up his mind to leave. Within two months, he made his AEW debut at the Casino Gauntlet in London, quickly becoming a prominent figure in AEW programming.
The Role of Samantha Irvin in Ricochet’s Wrestling Journey
While Ricochet acknowledged that his WWE departure decisions predated his relationship with Samantha, their shared history as WWE talents inevitably draws interest. Samantha Irvin, who was WWE’s lead ring announcer for multiple years before departing, has also embraced AEW, aligning their personal and professional lives closely in the wrestling business.
Insiders say their shared experience in WWE and subsequent transition to AEW have provided a strong support system for both. “Having Samantha by his side in AEW has definitely fueled Ricochet’s renewed enthusiasm,” a backstage source revealed. “She understands the industry pressures and has helped him avoid pitfalls he previously encountered.”
Ricochet’s Forthright Message to WWE Fans and the Wrestling Industry
Ricochet has not shied away from expressing his disappointment with WWE publicly. His social media exchanges have drawn attention for their frankness, with statements pointing to a broader conversation about creative freedom and performer treatment in professional wrestling companies.
On why AEW reignited his passion, Ricochet said, “This is the place where I feel respected as a wrestler and a person, where I can do what I love without feeling stifled” [1]. This perspective has resonated with many fans who see AEW as a more open and supportive alternative to the WWE model.
Industry Context: WWE’s Talent Departures and Creative Challenges
Ricochet’s exit follows a wave of talent departures from WWE in recent years, reflecting challenges in management and creative direction. Notables like Andrade and others have similarly left amid reports of dissatisfaction or limited opportunities [3]. Ricochet’s candidness adds to the growing public discourse about WWE’s handling of its roster.
A wrestling analyst commented, “Ricochet’s story highlights a critical issue in WWE’s talent management approach. Losing performers of his caliber to AEW is a reminder of how vital creative satisfaction is for keeping top stars engaged.”
Looking Ahead: Ricochet’s Future in AEW and Wrestling at Large
Since joining AEW, Ricochet has become a fan favorite, with increased creative input and an expanded role in storylines. Tony Khan has expressed confidence that Ricochet will be a cornerstone of AEW’s cruiserweight and high-flying divisions.
Ricochet’s journey—from disillusionment in WWE, through personal milestones with his wife Samantha, to resurgence in AEW—offers a narrative of career renewal fueled by environment and opportunity. As AEW continues to grow, Ricochet’s story may serve as a blueprint for other talents seeking fulfillment outside WWE’s system.
“Ricochet’s departure was inevitable from the moment he voiced his concerns,” a WWE insider said. “But his success in AEW proves that sometimes, stepping away from the familiar is exactly what a performer needs.”