Ricky Saints is learning quite a bit in NXT.
“Maybe the one in NXT would be when I won the [NXT North American] title [from Shawn Spears in April 2025]. That’d be a top one,” Saints said. “Anything beyond that, me versus Bryan Danielson for sure.”
Saints, as Ricky Starks, competed in two singles matches against Bryan Danielson in AEW. They first squared off in a No Disqualification Strap Match at All Out 2023, and later had a brutal Texas Death Match on the September 23, 2023, episode of AEW Collision.
Ricky Saints confirms Shawn Spears is coaching in NXT
Ricky Saints was also asked if there was anyone in WWE that became a positive influence that he perhaps wasn’t expecting to learn from. Saints disagreed with the sentiment and said everyone he’s worked with has taught him a lot, including Shawn Spears.
“No, because I feel like that discredits them,” Saints explained. “Every person that has come to me and talked to me — Terry Taylor, Fit Finlay, Matt Bloom — have been nothing but a wealth of knowledge. Shawn Spears also is a coach there and is very knowledgeable once you listen. For all his faults, he does have some good knowledge as well.”
Saints agreed that Spears might be underappreciated by some. Fans have gotten a better look at what Spears offers in his return to NXT. Spears continues to wrestle in NXT too, as a member of The Culling stable. His last match was a six-man tag team match at WWE Battleground 2025.
Watch our full interview with Ricky Saints below:
