Ricochet is thriving since moving to All Elite Wrestling

Ricochet has been a part of the AEW roster since August 25. In that time, he’s done some interesting things and is seemingly onto even bigger plans. News broke on Tuesday, that he’s set to face off against Zack Sabre Jr in a match for the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship. Ricochet is an example of what a change of scenery can do for talented individuals in professional wrestling.

In the eyes of many fans, Ricochet is one of the best performers in the business. A trailblazer in many ways. It’s because of that viewpoint, that many struggled with how he was used during his time in WWE. He had the talent to be a main event star, but he was never positioned to be that. Even though he held midcard titles, it was clear where his glass ceiling reached in compared to some of his peers.

Now, the question is will AEW book him in a stronger fashion? The verdict is far from done on that point, but he’s off to a good start. He’s involved in an important feud surrounding the AEW International Championship, and this booking in New Japan feels huge. Ricochet will stand across from one of the most important international performers in the business today. And he’ll get a chance to do what he’s always wanted to do, perform.

“Honestly, I went and had a talk with Tony. We sat and we talked for hours, talked about wrestling. I don’t think we talked about business,” said Ricochet to Chris Van Vliet. “I felt like a fan again just sitting and talking. I have made homies over there. When I really sat and thought about the time when I had the most fun in my career, I was hanging out with those guys over there. Find that spark. Find that fun. And I knew that they would give me the opportunity to just try stuff. At least they are going to let me try.”

That’s a powerful statement from someone that has been in wrestling for 21 years. Giving Ricochet and other wrestlers like him the opportunity to rekindle their love for professional wrestling is why organizations like AEW, NJPW, TNA and others are so important.

So far, Ricochet’s jump to AEW should be considered a success. He’s being booked well. Frequently on television in big matches. And he’s getting the opportunity to stand out. Here’s to hoping that momentum continues and he’ll get a moment to shine as a major champion. It’s what his fans have wanted to see for years and feels like it is finally within his grasp.