Despite reigning as the current WWE NXT Champion, Ricky Saints reveals that his journey in professional wrestling is still fueled by a deep-seated chip on his shoulder, stemming from his past struggles and battles outside the ring. This mindset has driven Saints to constantly defy expectations and prove his worth to the wrestling world.
From Underdog to NXT Champion
Ricky Saints, born Richard Starks in New Orleans, LA, is no stranger to perseverance. After carving out a name for himself on the independent circuit and in major promotions like the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) and All Elite Wrestling (AEW), Saints signed with WWE in early 2025. He rapidly ascended the ranks in NXT, capturing the NXT North American Championship before cementing his legacy by winning the NXT Championship at NXT No Mercy 2025, defeating Oba Femi in a major upset[1][2][6].
Despite his accolades, Saints admits that holding the top title in NXT has not diminished his hunger or shaken the feelings of having something to prove.
The Chip on His Shoulder
In a candid backstage interview, Saints explained that his drive comes from much more than the pursuit of gold. “I didn’t come from the easiest place, and for a long time, a lot of people overlooked me or thought I didn’t belong at the top level,” Saints said. “That chip on my shoulder—that fire—is what keeps me grinding every day. It’s not about proving them wrong once; it’s about proving it every single time I step in the ring.”[1]
Sources close to Saints reveal that this mentality is rooted in his experiences growing up and the early challenges in his wrestling career, where doors were often closed or paths blocked due to circumstances beyond his control. Even as a champion, Saints consciously channels this emotion to sharpen his focus and edge.
Wrestling Style and Personality
Ricky Saints’ wrestling style combines sharp, hard-hitting offense with a psychological edge. His signature move, the “Roshambo,” symbolizes his aggressive but calculated approach. Saints’ in-ring persona blends confidence with a willingness to ruffle feathers, making him a polarizing figure who thrives on crowd reactions—whether cheers or boos[2].
Fans and peers alike acknowledge that Saints’ intensity and talk are part of what has reshaped the NXT brand’s landscape this year. According to a WWE insider, “Ricky brings a swagger that commands attention. He’s not just winning matches; he’s changing how NXT feels. That chip on his shoulder? It’s what fuels his charisma and performance night after night.”
The NXT Championship’s Importance
The NXT Championship has grown into a prestigious stepping stone for WWE’s future main-event stars, with former champions like Big E and Seth Rollins using it as a launchpad for their career peak. Saints, as the current titleholder, shoulders the responsibility of living up to that lineage while stamping his unique identity on the belt[6].
With a reign surpassing 30 days and counting, Saints seeks to carry the torch forward by setting new standards in NXT’s championship scene.
Looking Ahead: The Saints Revolution
Ricky Saints consistently emphasizes that his mission extends beyond just personal success. His vision involves transforming NXT into a platform where his brand of confident, bold wrestling excellence becomes the new norm. As he put it, “The revolution is televised, and I’m leading that charge. NXT is my canvas, and I’m ready to mold it in my image.”[2]
Industry observers predict that Saints will continue to be a major draw for NXT events and a centerpiece of WWE’s plans for its developmental brand.
Final Thoughts
Ricky Saints’ story is one of resilience, ambition, and an unapologetic refusal to settle for anything less than the very best. Wrestling with a chip on his shoulder—one forged from personal trials and professional setbacks—Saints is not only a champion but a relentless force pushing himself and NXT forward.
As a WWE official commented, “Saints embodies what it means to fight for every inch in wrestling. That kind of passion and grit is rare and makes him a true champion in every sense.”
Fans eager to follow Saints’ journey should keep a close eye on upcoming NXT programming, as the reigning champion looks poised to redefine what it means to be a leader in WWE.
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