Ricky Starks surprised the crowd during Friday’s episode of AEW Rampage when he announced that he will defend the FTW Championship at AEW Battle of the Belts on January 8.
In a brief promo during the January 7 episode of Rampage, Starks confirmed the news, saying that he would be giving the title opportunity to Matt Sydal because he’s “The Stroke Daddy”, and he gets what he wants. The reason for Sydal being the opponent, according to Starks, is to prove to Dante Martin that he can beat Sydal in just one match, whereas it took Martin three in order to overcome the veteran.
Starks defeated Cage to win the gold at AEW Fyter Fest 2021. He hasn’t defended the title on AEW TV since he beat Brian Cage in a street fight on the October 8 episode of AEW Rampage.
Another incredible match has been added to #AEW’s #BattleOfTheBelts!
It’s #RickyStarks vs. @MattSydal for the FTW Title TOMORROW LIVE at 8/7c on @TNTDrama! pic.twitter.com/qpUjat9YvH— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) January 8, 2022
You can view the updated card for AEW’s Battle of the Belts below:
- AEW Women’s World Championship: Britt Baker (c) vs. Riho
- Interim AEW TNT Championship: Dustin Rhodes (c) vs. Sammy Guevara
- FTW Championship: Ricky Starks (c) vs. Matt Sydal
RELATED: AEW Rampage Results (1/7/22): Adam Cole Takes On Jake Atlas And More
