Ricochet says his five years on the WWE main roster “tarnished” his wrestling legacy

Professional wrestler Ricochet has expressed a belief that his time with WWE significantly impacted his career trajectory, potentially “tarnishing” his wrestling legacy. He shared these thoughts during an interview with The Mark Hoke Show, framing his experience as a period of being disconnected from the work that initially brought him success.

A Career “Blipped” Away

Ricochet described a distinct shift in his career following an image posted featuring himself alongside Johnny Gargano, Tommaso Ciampa, and Aleister Black, announcing their move to RAW. He likened this moment to a “five-year blip,” referencing the Marvel Cinematic Universe, where his career diverged from the path he had been on in independent promotions, and Japan.

He contrasted his current experience in AEW with his time in WWE, stating that he is now performing in a manner similar to his earlier work. Ricochet feels that his time on the WWE main roster altered the public’s perception of him and his wrestling identity.

Acknowledging Positives Amidst Concerns

Despite his criticisms, Ricochet acknowledged positive outcomes from his time with WWE, including meeting his wife, forming friendships, and gaining a large platform. However, he maintains that these benefits did not outweigh the negative impact on his wrestling career.

Ricochet believes the call-up to RAW was ultimately detrimental, stating it was “the worst thing that happened to Ricochet’s wrestling career.” He emphasized that the issue isn’t about fame or celebrity, but specifically about the wrestling side of his profession.

What Could Happen Next

Ricochet’s current run in AEW could see him regain the momentum he felt was lost during his time with WWE. He may continue to draw parallels between his experiences in different promotions, potentially influencing his creative choices. It’s also possible that his comments could spark further discussion within the wrestling community about the challenges of maintaining creative control and preserving a wrestler’s identity across different organizations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Ricochet say about his time in WWE?

Ricochet stated that his five years on the WWE main roster “tarnished” his wrestling legacy and felt like a “blip” in his career.

Who was featured in the image that Ricochet referenced?

The image featured Ricochet, Johnny Gargano, Tommaso Ciampa, and Aleister Black, announcing their move to RAW.

Did Ricochet acknowledge any positive aspects of his time in WWE?

Yes, Ricochet acknowledged meeting his wife, making friends, and gaining a large platform while with WWE.

How do you think a wrestler’s creative control impacts their overall career and legacy?