Ricochet’s AEW Heel Turn Spills Over to WWE 2K25: A Controversial Reaction

The world of professional wrestling is no stranger to heated rivalries, dramatic character shifts, and unexpected controversies. However, what happens when the drama extends beyond the squared circle and into the realm of video games?

With the recent release of WWE 2K25 on March 14, fans around the world eagerly dived into the latest installment of the popular wrestling simulation franchise. While many celebrated the new features, roster updates, and enhanced gameplay, one particular reaction to the game’s release made headlines—Ricochet’s online response. Now a member of AEW, Ricochet seemingly embraced his new heel persona beyond television, making a disrespectful comment about a clip showing young fans playing the latest WWE game.

WWE 2K25 Launches Amidst Excitement and Criticism

The WWE 2K series has been a staple in wrestling gaming for years, giving fans the opportunity to step into the shoes of their favorite superstars, relive historic rivalries, and create dream matchups. WWE 2K25 came with much anticipation, boasting improved graphics, new match types, and an expanded roster.

Despite the overall excitement surrounding its release, the game wasn’t without its share of criticism. Some players pointed out glitches, while others debated over the wrestler ratings and omissions from the roster. However, one reaction, in particular, sparked an unexpected level of controversy—Ricochet’s social media outburst.

Ricochet’s AEW Journey and Heel Turn

Ricochet, known for his high-flying athleticism and gravity-defying maneuvers, made a name for himself in WWE before making the jump to AEW. Originally debuting in AEW as a babyface, Ricochet received a mixed reception from the fans. His time as a beloved hero was short-lived, as the audience quickly turned on him, prompting a dramatic shift in his character.

Embracing his darker side, Ricochet evolved into a cocky, ruthless competitor who thrived on antagonizing fans. His recent rivalry with Swerve Strickland solidified his transformation, culminating in a bitter defeat at AEW’s Revolution PPV. While losses in wrestling can often mark the beginning of a redemption arc, Ricochet instead doubled down on his heel persona—and not just inside the ring.

Ricochet’s Response to WWE 2K25 Gameplay Video

One of the more heartwarming aspects of wrestling fandom is seeing young fans enjoy the spectacle, whether it be watching live events, attending meet-and-greets, or playing wrestling video games. A prime example of this was seen when Victor Taylor Perry of The Wrestling Club posted a video on Twitter, showing his students enjoying WWE 2K25.

Rather than appreciating the enthusiasm of young wrestling fans, Ricochet took to social media to voice his frustration. His annoyance stemmed from not seeing his character being used in the clip. Rather than a lighthearted response, Ricochet leaned into his heel persona, going as far as to call the children “ungrateful.”

Fan Reactions and Backlash

As expected, Ricochet’s comment did not go unnoticed. Fans immediately responded, with reactions ranging from amusement to outrage. Some believed he was simply playing into his current AEW heel character, using the opportunity to generate heat and keep his on-screen persona consistent. Others, however, felt that targeting young fans—even in jest—crossed a line.

Wrestling fans are known for their passionate loyalty, and those who still support WWE didn’t take kindly to Ricochet’s dismissive attitude toward children enjoying a game from his former promotion. Many accused him of being bitter about his WWE departure and letting personal grievances spill into public interactions.

On the flip side, some AEW fans and Ricochet supporters defended him, arguing that the comment was nothing more than classic heel behavior meant to stir controversy. In professional wrestling, blurring the lines between reality and fiction is a common tactic, and Ricochet may have simply been capitalizing on the moment.

A Deeper Look: Was Ricochet’s Comment Part of a Bigger AEW Strategy?

AEW has built a reputation for embracing real-life wrestling politics and social media engagement as part of its storytelling. With wrestlers frequently using online platforms to fuel rivalries and build anticipation for upcoming matches, Ricochet’s remark could very well be a strategic move.

By attacking WWE fans—even indirectly—Ricochet aligns himself more with the AEW faithful, reinforcing his new identity as a heel. Given his recent loss at Revolution, the timing of the controversy is also interesting. AEW might be positioning Ricochet for a major feud, and his WWE 2K25 reaction could be an intentional means of drawing attention back to him.

WWE vs. AEW: The Never-Ending Battle

The rivalry between WWE and AEW is nothing new. Ever since AEW’s rise as a legitimate competitor, wrestlers from both promotions have taken subtle (and not-so-subtle) jabs at each other.

Former WWE stars who jump ship to AEW often carry lingering frustrations with how they were booked or treated in WWE. While some leave on good terms, others, like CM Punk and Andrade, have openly criticized their former employer. Ricochet’s comment, while minor in comparison, could be seen as part of this ongoing war of words between the two companies.

Conversely, WWE has also taken occasional shots at AEW, whether through indirect promos or by producing high-profile events that overshadow AEW’s biggest moments. The rivalry continues to fuel fan debates, making moments like Ricochet’s WWE 2K25 response all the more significant in the broader landscape of pro wrestling.

What’s Next for Ricochet?

Despite the backlash, Ricochet’s name is trending again, which in wrestling is never a bad thing. Whether he uses this momentum to further develop his AEW heel character or chooses to clarify his comments remains to be seen.

His loss to Swerve Strickland at Revolution may have been a setback, but controversy has a way of keeping wrestlers relevant. If AEW capitalizes on this situation correctly, Ricochet could be heading into a major storyline, possibly against another fan-favorite wrestler.

Additionally, the timing of WWE 2K25’s release could open the door for Ricochet to further his heel antics by continuing to mock WWE-related content, sparking more conversations and engaging both WWE and AEW audiences.

: Heel Work or Genuine Frustration?

At its core, professional wrestling is about storytelling—both inside and outside the ring. Ricochet’s response to the WWE 2K25 clip has left fans debating whether it was a genuine moment of frustration or a calculated heel move designed to keep his character relevant.

Regardless of intent, the controversy has succeeded in getting people talking. Whether Ricochet doubles down on his heel persona or eventually walks back his comments, one thing is clear—wrestling, at its best, is when reality and fiction seamlessly intertwine.

As WWE 2K25 continues to be enjoyed by fans worldwide, and as AEW continues to build its brand, the lines between the virtual world, real-life rivalries, and professional wrestling storytelling remain as blurred as ever. And for wrestlers like Ricochet, sometimes all it takes is one comment to remind the world that, in wrestling, controversy equals cash.