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Ricky Saints explains viral WWE photo with other former AEW stars

Posted: Apr 3rd 2026 By: Rosanne Raphael

Ricky Saints addressed the intention behind the Saturday Night’s Main Event XLI photo in November 2025. He was photographed with Jade Cargill, CM Punk and Cody Rhodes backstage, all who happened to be formerly associated with AEW.

In an interview with the New York Post, Saints reflected on the photo with the WWE champions. He cited there was no malicious intent towards his former promotion. He attended the show to watch Cargill’s match from backstage, and the others happened to be around while he was taking promo photos with his NXT Championship.

“That picture was not based on us wanting to prove a point or anything. I was there to see Jade (Cargill) have her match and it just happened that I saw Punk. It was all just circumstance. It wasn’t like a deliberate thing and Punk wanted a picture, so I said, ‘Hey, why not?’ I was there with my (NXT) title because I was also taking promo pictures. It just worked out. There was no ill will about it. We all know each other, we all like each other, and it was a cool moment. Look at us, we’re all champions right now. Whatever agenda people want to apply to it is up to them. I doubt anyone really cared over there (in AEW) or over here.”

At SNME XLI, Punk defeated Jey Uso for the World Heavyweight Title while Cargill captured the WWE Women’s Title from Tiffany Stratton.

Rhodes defended his Undisputed WWE Championship against Drew McIntyre in a singles match. There was an added stipulation that if Rhodes was disqualified or counted out, he would lose the title.

Saints has often praised Rhodes for being an impactful figure in his life and career.

Saints made his WWE debut on NXT in February 2025 after nearly five years with AEW. He won the NXT Championship in September, a title he held for around 70 days before Oba Femi dethroned him.