Ricky Saints, an emerging talent in WWE’s NXT brand, credits CM Punk wrestling guidance alongside Bryan Danielson for shaping his career. As Saints prepares to challenge Oba Femi for the NXT Championship at No Mercy, this matchup marks the biggest moment of his WWE tenure so far.
Ricky Saints’ Journey to WWE Stardom
Known previously as Ricky Starks during his AEW days, Saints quickly built a reputation on Dynamite before rumors of his WWE switch began circulating in early 2024. After an 11-month wait, he officially debuted in WWE in February and soon made waves by capturing the North American Championship amid a high-profile feud with Ethan Page. Having moved past the North American title, Saints now sets his sights on the NXT Championship.
When speaking on Good Karma Wrestling about those who supported him, Saints identified several key figures who played significant roles in his development. He explained the guidance he received from Bryan Danielson, CM Punk, Cody, and Shawn Spears, as well as lesser-known wrestlers like Jax Dane from the NWA, who mentored him early in his career.
“There’s a few people in my life that have really helped me. You’ve got Bryan Danielson, CM Punk, Cody, Shawn Spears; people like that, that have really, along the way, helped guide me to this point that I’m getting to. Even some guys that are not as known. God rest his soul, Jax Dane was another guy from NWA that really took me under his wing and helped me out. So, I can’t say that this was a lonesome journey, for sure. There are people who have helped as much as they could, as much as they have been able to help. So I do think that this Saturday, it is on me to not only make them proud, but to make myself proud and my family proud as well.”
— Ricky Saints, WWE Star
Reflecting on Past Battles: Danielson on Ricky Saints’ Memorable Match
One of Saints’ standout matches occurred at AEW’s All Out 2023 event, where he faced Bryan Danielson in an intense Strap Match. This bout came during a turbulent time as CM Punk, Saints’ rival, was involved in a backstage altercation the week prior at All In, leading to significant consequences for Punk’s career.
Looking back in July 2025, Danielson remarked that his involvement in the match was somewhat unexpected, linked to an unfortunate backstage incident. Despite being recently recovering from a broken arm sustained at Forbidden Door, Danielson still took part in the match, highlighting the demanding and unpredictable nature of professional wrestling schedules.
Rising Stakes: No Mercy and NXT Championship Showdown
No Mercy serves as a pivotal stage for Saints, who will challenge Oba Femi for WWE’s NXT Championship. This confrontation symbolizes a crucial milestone not only for Saints’ career but also for NXT as a brand hoping to elevate fresh stars through high-profile contests. Saints’ acknowledgment of his mentors underscores the depth of support behind this opportunity.
Wider WWE Landscape: Key Updates and Developments
Amidst Saints’ ascension, other significant WWE developments continue to unfold. Stephanie McMahon was announced as the first inductee into the 2026 WWE Hall of Fame during Wrestlepalooza, signaling continued recognition for key figures in the company’s history. Meanwhile, John Cena’s highly anticipated match against AJ Styles at Crown Jewel has drawn new attention, as speculation grows over Cena’s potential retirement timing possibly extending to WrestleMania 42.
Elsewhere, a major WWE star prepares for a special match in Japan, illustrating WWE’s global reach and efforts to maintain relationships with international wrestling scenes. Meanwhile, Randy Orton’s wife publicly criticized WWE’s handling of his absence at some milestone events, highlighting ongoing tensions within the company.
In the wider wrestling world, former TNA Knockouts Champion Masha Slamovich responded after allegations of domestic abuse surfaced, reflecting the complex and often difficult personal issues wrestlers face outside the ring. The Rock also voiced support for a UFC champion poised for WWE greatness, emphasizing crossover appeal between mixed martial arts and professional wrestling.
Implications for WWE’s Future Talent Development
Ricky Saints’ recognition of mentorship from prominent wrestlers like CM Punk and Bryan Danielson speaks to the importance of veteran guidance in shaping rising stars. His upcoming title match at No Mercy could mark a defining point in his career trajectory, potentially inspiring other emerging wrestlers within WWE’s developmental systems.
As WWE balances honoring established stars and cultivating new champions, the stories of wrestlers like Saints reveal the nuanced pathways talent follows in an intensely competitive industry. Observers will be watching closely to see how Saints’ career unfolds with such experienced figures credited for his growth, while the company navigates broader storylines and legacy considerations.
