Malakai Black’s return to WWE isn’t a question of if, but when, according to some fans, especially after a post by the Dutch wrestler on Instagram. On his Instagram Stories, Black shared a fan-created video, highlighting some of his best matches and moments from his tenure as a WWE Superstar.
Black’s post is the latest that fans have seen from the Dutch wrestler that has seemingly hinted at an impending WWE return. Ahead of the 2025 Royal Rumble PLE, Black shared footage of himself watching a previous Royal Rumble, leading fans to speculate on an appearance at this year’s event. On social media, many have predicted a Black return to WWE sooner than later, both before, and after this post on Instagram.
Would love to see Malakai/Aleister Black return to WWE now his AEW contract has expired however as I’ve always said as long as he’s happy then that’s most important. Under Triple H I think just in NXT he’d be an absolute star. #WWE#WWERawpic.twitter.com/QbY1NVX73l
#WWE should bring Malakai Black back and make him the leader of Judgement day. Have Balor start a faction of him, Karrion Kross & JD Mcdonagh to take on JD. Kross needs more TV time and could work either in JD or a faction to oppose them.
Black parted ways with AEW earlier this year, alongside Miro and Ricky Saints, the latter of whom has since joined WWE NXT. With Black’s wife Zelina Vega a part of WWE, a return would allow the couple to spend more time together. Black fared much better in WWE under Triple H’s leadership in NXT, and with the Game now running all of WWE’s creative, a return certainly seems plausible.
Adam Cole has opened up about his match with Malakai Black.
The Undisputed Kingdom star recently had an interview with 107.7 The Bone to promote the upcoming Revolution PPV. He talked about things such as his ankle injury, making his AEW debut alongside Bryan Danielson and more.
During the interview, the AEW star was also asked about sharing a hug with Malakai Black after their Dynamite match last November and if he had any idea about the future plans for the former House of Black leader. Adam Cole explained that it was just two friends sharing a moment after his return from his long hiatus:
“No, I really didn’t. So again I do have a history of working with Malakai. [He’s] just an unbelievable opponent, an unbelievable guy to step in there with. We’ve shared a lot of really really cool moments together. So for me all it was, was this personal moment between two guys who have a lot of love and respect for each other.
I don’t know anything about or didn’t know anything about what his plans were and things like that. For me it was just a cool moment with a friend after getting to work together after a long time.”
Malakai Black is believed to be on his way out of AEW and reports suggest that he has already finished up with the promotion. If true then it would mean that the Adam Cole match was Black’s final 1-on-1 match in the company as he only wrestled in a few tag matches after that.
Cole is currently not booked for a match at the AEW Revolution PPV but the show features a lot of interesting matches including a couple added this week. You can check out more details about the PPV here.
Former WWE General Manager Teddy Long is skeptical about the possibility of WWE bringing back Miro (formerly Rusev) or Malakai Black following their rumored AEW releases.
Speaking on WrestleBinge, Long suggested that WWE has moved on from these talents and is unlikely to reach back for them.
“I think Rusev has had his day with WWE. I don’t think they’re going to take him back,” Long said.
He acknowledged that Miro was given opportunities during his WWE run but questioned what the company could do with him now.
“They gave him a push… I don’t know if it was his attitude or something else, but what are you going to do with him after all this? How are you going to repackage him?”
As for Malakai Black, Long believes WWE is more focused on building fresh talent rather than bringing back former stars.
“Bringing in somebody who was already in your company looks like you’re reaching back to pull some, and they’re not outstanding superstar talent,” he explained.
While he praised their in-ring ability, he didn’t see them as major draws WWE would be eager to re-sign.
Once They Go To AEW…
Long also took a shot at AEW’s use of former WWE wrestlers, suggesting that many of them are just collecting a paycheck rather than advancing their careers.
“Once they get to AEW, they’re working for a payday and that’s it… They’re not going to get being creative, that’s for sure.”
With WWE reportedly shifting its focus toward homegrown talent and younger stars, Long’s comments align with the company’s recent booking philosophy.
While surprises are always possible in pro wrestling, his skepticism raises doubts about Miro or Malakai Black finding their way back to WWE anytime soon.
For months, speculation has run rampant about Malakai Black and the status of the former AEW Trios and WWE NXT Champion. On AEW programming, the House of Black has teased moving forward without Black, who is reportedly officially done with Tony Khan’s promotion.
Mike Johnson of PWInsiderElitereports that AEW sources have confirmed Black has finished with the promotion, with no discussions regarding a final appearance. Black had joined AEW in 2021 and had formed the House of Black with Brody King and Buddy Matthews the following year. The group later recruited Julia Hart.
While Black’s exit has left fans excited about a potential WWE return, don’t expect to see Black on programming just yet. The report noted that Black will not be a free agent in time to participate in next week’s Royal Rumble event. However, he is expected to be available sometime in February or March.
Black had been with WWE for four years after debuting in 2017. In addition to being a former NXT Champion, he is also a Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic winner. A return to WWE would allow Black the chance to spend more time with his wife, Zelina Vega, who is employed by WWE.
WWE is already home to AEW alum including Cody Rhodes, Jade Cargill, and Ethan Page, and now Malakai Black could be set to join that list. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Malakai Black and what’s next for him in wrestling.
Malakai Black has been a part of AEW since 2021, but reports are growing that his time with the company is ending. Amid talk of an imminent WWE return, there was a potential tease for the former NXT Champion during the January 20, edition of Monday Night Raw.
In a backstage segment, Chad Gable seeked the Judgment Day’s help to deal with his ‘lucha problem.’ Dominik Mysterio was willing to help and offered Mysterio a piece of paper with the name of someone who’d help. While the name wasn’t shown, Gable was pleased and proclaimed that he’d be trained in the ‘Dark Arts’ of Lucha Libre.
Gable’s comments about learning the ‘dark arts’ has led some to speculate that this is a tease for Malakai Black. Though the Dutch wrestler is not a luchador, he does own and operate the ‘Dark Arts’ wrestling school and gym alongside his wife Zelina Vega. In 2022, Black said that WWE’s Performance Center helped inspire ‘Dark Arts’ saying that the Orlando facility uses a “system that works really well with the correct discipline.”
Ideas for Black’s return to WWE are already being discussed, the Wrestling Observer Newsletter has reported, with fans expecting a big push should he come back. Several AEW alum have received notable pushes in WWE including Ethan Page, Jade Cargill, and reigning Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Malakai Black as anticipation grows about a potential return to WWE.
Rumors continue to circulate that fans have seen the last of Malakai Black in an AEW ring, months after fans last saw the former Trios Champion on programming. On Instagram, AEW shared a hype video for Brody King, Buddy Matthews and Julia Hart. Not only did the video omit Black, but the caption avoided mentioning the House of Black stable by name, and similarly avoided mentioning the group’s namesake.
This interesting post comes amid reports that Black is finishing his time with AEW. On TV, Buddy Matthews has been encouraged to break away from Black’s control, and pursue a singles run in 2025. Brody King has filed a trademark for the term ‘Hounds Of Hell’ which many are seeing as a new stable name that demonstrates AEW is moving forward without Black being a factor in plans.
The Dutch wrestler last competed for AEW at November’s Full Gar pay-per-view. At the event, He teamed with Brody King for a fatal four-way tag team championship match but the duo were unsuccessful. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Malakai Black’s future in wrestling, as AEW continues to hint that fans have seen the last of the former NXT Champion in an AEW ring.
Malakai Black is set to become a free agent before WrestleMania 41 from Los Angeles according to latest reports.
There have been lots of rumors about the former NXT Champion’s future amid his AEW hiatus and many believed that he might already be done with Tony Khan’s promotion.
PWinsider recently provided an update on his situation however, noting that as of now, Black is still technically under an AEW deal. Though people within the company believe that he will not be returning to AEW programming and they expect him to become a free agent sometime in February or March.
Malakai Black was last seen on TV during the Full Gear PPV in November 2024. He teamed with Brody King for a fatal four-way tag team championship match but the duo were unsuccessful in their quest to win the title.
AEW hinted at Black’s faction member Buddy Matthews breaking away from the group and going on a singles run in 2025 during the most recent episode of Dynamite. The storyline only further suggests that the company is not factoring the former WWE star in their plans for the new year.
Known as Aleister Black in WWE, the 39-year-old was featured prominently in NXT under Triple H. Now that the game is running main roster creative, Black returning to the Endeavor-owned promotion seems like the most natural course of action if he does leave AEW.
AEW star Malakai Black has been announced for a rare indie appearance amid his unexplained absence from TV and rumors about his future.
Coastal Championship Wrestling in Tampa Florida has announced that the former NXT Champion will be making his debut for the promotion at their HAVOC & HAZE 9 event this Saturday, January 11.
While an opponent for Black has not been announced, the company has confirmed that the All Elite Wrestling star will indeed be in action at the show from Magnanimous Brewing in Tampa, FL:
BREAKING NEWS: #AEW star MALAKAI BLACK (@malakaiblxck) makes his CCW debut THIS WEEKEND in Tampa!
Malakai Black is still listed on AEW’s official roster but he has not wrestled for the company since November. He last wrestled in a fatal four-way tag team championship match at Full Gear where Private Party retained the tag titles.
During the most recent January 8 Dynamite, Will Ospreay cut a promo on Black’s faction member Buddy Matthews after defeating him in a singles match. Ospreay urged Matthews to ‘step out of’ the shadow of Black, fueling speculations that Buddy could be leaving the faction soon and starting a singles run.
The CCW announcement serves as a confirmation that Black is fit to perform despite not being used by AEW. This, coupled with reports of Black’s AEW contract has fuelled speculation about the 39-year-old potentially being on his way back to WWE.
Will Ospreay’s intriguing comments for Buddy Matthews didn’t go unnoticed, as questions remain about the future of the House of Black. During this week’s Dynamite, Ospreay encouraged Matthews to step out of the shadow of Malakai Black.
Ospreay got the win in their singles match, and after the show, Matthews admitted that 2025 had not kicked off as he had hoped. The Australian, who hopes to compete at Grand Slam next month, then turned his attention to Ospreay.
“Will, even though you put a hiccup in my 2025, your words tonight didn’t go to deaf ears.”
EXCLUSIVE @SNM_Buddy comments on the words spoken after his intense match with Will Ospreay, giving his take on the aftermath! pic.twitter.com/Xyhh2D6Snx
Ospreay’s comment about Matthews stepping away from come at an interesting time, with reports that Black is finishing his time with AEW. The Dutchman hasn’t competed for AEW since November’s Full Gear pay-per-view, where he was on the losing end of a four-way tag team match with Matthews.
Matthews has been associated with Black since his arrival in AEW in 2022, and the prospect of the Australian going solo has intrigued fans. With his wife Rhea Ripley seeing huge success on her own in WWE, many are hoping to see Matthews do the same in AEW, if his time working with Black is indeed at an end as rumored.
Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Buddy Matthews and his status going forward in AEW, potentially as a singles performer.
Speculation is growing that Malakai Black may be finishing his run with AEW.
During Wednesday’s episode of AEW Dynamite, Will Ospreay defeated Buddy Matthews in a high-energy match. Following the bout, Ospreay urged Matthews to “step out of the shadow of Malakai Black,” fueling rumors about Black’s status with the promotion.
Fightful Select reports that “those that we spoke to in the company were of the belief that he was finishing up with AEW if he hadn’t already. They did not clarify if he’d be appearing on TV again.”
This speculation arises despite prior reports suggesting option years in Black’s contract extending through 2025, and Tony Khan publicly stating that Black was under contract until 2027. It remains unclear whether his contract has ended, an option was declined or exercised, or if there has been any formal transaction.
As of now, Black is still listed on AEW’s official website. However, he has not wrestled for the company since Full Gear.
Fans won’t have to wait long to see Black back in action, as he is scheduled to wrestle Irion at Coastal Championship Wrestling’s Havoc & Haze 9 in Tampa on Saturday, January 11, 2025.
All Elite Wrestling star Malakai Black is setting the record straight about his health and status with the company. Following a hard-fought loss to Adam Cole on Wednesday’s AEW Dynamite, Cole extended a his hand for handshake. Black took a moment, and instead embraced his longtime rival with a big hug.
Cole took a microphone and declared that Black is one of the best wrestlers he’s ever faced. The show of respect prompted a standing ovation from the live crowd. Fans immediately took to social media and speculated this signified Black is either taking another extended absense, or leaving the company entirely.
Malakai Black’s Statement
On Thursday morning, Black posted a video on Instagram to provide his side of the story. He expresses frustration about the rumors concerning his health and career, and urges fans to be respectful of his situation.
“I’m not injured nor am I retiring or am I leaving,” Black said. “I feel this happens every match I have, and I don’t understand how many times you’re going to say these things and then them not happening and people are still going to fall for that. I haven’t been injured in more than three years… I’m fine, I’ve been fine for the longest time. I would really appreciate it if that stuff stops, man.
If I’m going to retire, you’re going to hear it from me and not after Adam just cuts a promo just as a thank you for the match. Because that’s all it was. So, thank you.”
Malakai Black has kept an active schedule this year, and has wrestled 23 matches for AEW, most of which have been tag matches with his partners in the House of Black.
Adam Copeland, a WWE Hall of Famer, signed with AEW after a notable career that included memorable character work and his breakthrough with The Brood. The WWE stable, consisting of Edge (Copeland), Christian, and Gangrel, has long been defunct. Copeland wanted to revive the faction during his last WWE run, but it was rejected.
At AEW Double or Nothing, Copeland introduced a new entrance featuring “The Brood” on the screen and music similar to their original theme, a trademark not owned by WWE. This moment was well-received by fans in Las Vegas.
The fires of Hell can't contain #TNT Champion Adam Copeland, but let’s see if a BARBED WIRE STEEL CAGE can as he faces off against #HouseOfBlack’s Malakai Black!
In the match’s closing moments, Gangrel appeared just as the House of Black was about to execute Copeland, who was positioned with a crown of barbed wire around his head and arms outstretched. The Vampire Warrior intervened and laid out the House of Black, allowing Copeland to secure the win.
After the match, Copeland and Gangrel celebrated on the entrance ramp, marking a reunion of sorts for the former Brood members. Despite his absence from WWE, Copeland showed he remains a strong performer, canceling a two-day event in Germany to appear at Double or Nothing.
Gangrel’s appearance was a significant highlight, and it remains to be seen if he will make more appearances for AEW. Fans appreciated seeing him in Las Vegas, adding a nostalgic element to the event.
Adam Copeland is widely known for his accomplishments under the Edge moniker in WWE. As a member of The Brood, the WWE Hall of Famer popularized bloodbaths, and he brought that to AEW for the May 22 Dynamite.
During this week’s Dynamite, Malakai Black faced Roderick Strong in a highly competitive match. In the end, Black emerged victorious, but his night took an unexpected turn.
All rise for the #HouseOfBlack. Malakai Black faces Kyle O’Reilly tonight before his Barbed Wire Steel Cage Match for the #TNT Championship against Adam Copeland at #AEWDoN!
Following his win, the lights in the arena shifted to an ominous red, and music reminiscent of The Brood began playing. Although it wasn’t the exact Brood theme, it sounded strikingly similar. Suddenly, the ceiling opened above Malakai Black, and the House of Black leader was drenched in a crimson bath. While the liquid wasn’t real blood, it was convincingly realistic, leaving Black in a state of shock and anger.
Then the screen revealed Adam Copeland, standing with a look of satisfaction. This dramatic moment set the stage for their upcoming clash at Double or Nothing. The AEW TNT Title will be on the line in a barbed wire steel cage match, with Copeland putting his title on the line.
You can find the card for AEW Double or Nothing below. We will have continued coverage at SEScoops.
Roderick Strong (c) vs. Will Ospreay – Singles match for the AEW International Championship
“Timeless” Toni Storm (c) (with Luther and Mariah May) vs. Serena Deeb – Singles match for the AEW Women’s World Championship
Adam Copeland (c) vs. Malakai Black – Barbed Wire Steel Cage match for the AEW TNT Championship
Jon Moxley vs. Konosuke Takeshita – IWGP World Heavyweight Championship Eliminator match
Trent Beretta vs. Orange Cassidy – Singles match
Chris Jericho (c) (with Big Bill) vs. HOOK vs Katsuyori Shibata – FTW Rules match for the FTW Championship
Willow Nightingale (c) vs. Mercedes Moné – Singles match for the AEW TBS Championship
The Elite (Kazuchika Okada, Jack Perry, Matthew Jackson, and Nicholas Jackson) vs. Team AEW (Bryan Danielson, Cash Wheeler, Dax Harwood, and Darby Allin) – Anarchy in the Arena match
Swerve Strickland (c) (with Prince Nana) vs. Christian Cage (with Killswitch, Nick Wayne, and Mother Wayne) – Singles match for the AEW World Championship
AEW TNT Champion Adam Copeland hopes to end his war with The House of Black at Double or Nothing in the confines of a barbed wire-clad Steel Cage.
The match was made official on the May 15, episode of AEW Dynamite and comes after weeks of feuding between the two sides. Copeland will face Malakai Black at the upcoming pay-per-view. He has previously retained his title against both Buddy Matthews and Brody King.
Copeland had made the challenge following last week’s AEW Collision, where he retained the title against Kyle O’Reilly. On Dynamite, the Rated-R Superstar was mentally and physically tormented by the faction and both he and Reilly were attacked by the House of Black.
Backstage, Black accepted the challenge and accepted Copeland’s request for a Barbed Wire Steel Cage match. The Rated-R Superstar could lose more than his title though, as Black revealed that should he beat Copeland, the WWE Hall of Famer would bend his knee to the House of Black.
AEW Double or Nothing 2024
Here is the card for AEW Double or Nothing 2024 as it currently stands.
Willow Nightingale (c) vs. Mercedes Moné (AEW TBS Championship)
Roderick Strong (c) vs. Will Ospreay (AEW International Championship)
“Timeless” Toni Storm (c) (with Luther and Mariah May) vs. Serena Deeb (AEW Women’s World Championship)
Swerve Strickland (c) (with Prince Nana) vs. Christian Cage (with Killswitch, Nick Wayne, and Mother Wayne) (AEW World Championship)
The Elite (Kazuchika Okada, Jack Perry and The Young Bucks (Matthew Jackson, and Nicholas Jackson)) vs. Team AEW (Bryan Danielson, FTR (Cash Wheeler, and Dax Harwood), and Darby Allin) (Anarchy In The Arena Match)
Adam Copeland (c) vs. Malakai Black (AEW TNT Championship, Barbed Wire Steel Cage Match)
Former UFC fighter turned pro wrestler and promoter Josh Barnett says he’s spoken with CM Punk and other names from WWE and AEW about competing for his Bloodsport promotion, which is affiliated with Game Changer Wrestling (GCW).
The upcoming Bloodsport X event over WrestleMania weekend will feature a special attraction match pitting WWE Superstar Shayna Baszler against TNA’s Masha Slamovich.
Barnett wants to get more WWE (and AEW) contracted names to step into his league’s domain. During a recent appearance on the Under the Ring podcast, he revealed that he’s actually spoken with CM Punk about participating, as well as AEW star Malakai Black.
Both Punk and Black have martial arts experience and their offensive styles would translate well to Bloodsports’ ‘shoot-fight’ presentation.
Barnett also named Chad Gable, Born Breaker and Miro as grapplers he’d like to see fight in Bloodsport.
Punk has been out of action since suffering a torn triceps in the 2024 Men’s Royal Rumble match. The injury has robbed Punk of an opportunity to step in the ring at WrestleMania 40, but he still vows to make his presence felt.
CM Punk signed with the UFC in 2014 just months after leaving WWE. He wouldn’t make his debut until 2016 and lost in decisive fashion. Stephanie McMahon mocked Punk’s loss on WWE television, one of many examples of how bitter that relationship was for many years.
Punk’s second and final UFC fight was another decisive loss to Mike Jackson. That loss was later overturned and the result ruled a ‘no contest’ due to Jackson failing a test.
Welcome to SEScoops’ Daily Drop – a rundown of the top stories in pro wrestling all in one place.
Our mission is to provide our readers with the most important and interesting news from WWE, AEW and more that’s timely, informative and engaging. The Daily Drop is a destination where you can get a snapshot of the top stories in wrestling.
WrestleMania 40 COUNTDOWN: 47 days away
Here’s the Daily Drop news report for Wednesday, February 19, 2024:
WWE
– The Rock is staying in Daytona for the second day of NASCAR’s big race. The race was delayed due to rain, but Dwayne Johnson isn’t leaving until he tells drivers to start their engines.
– Malakai Black made his in-ring return, but it wasn’t during an AEW event. He competed at the Dark Arts gym. His last singles match took place in September 2022 when he competed for PRESTIGE. Meanwhile, his last singles match in AEW took place in June 2022.
– AEW Dynamite: Big Business is coming to Boston’s TD Garden on March 13th.
– AEW Revolution takes place the following weekend on Sunday, March 3.
– WWE NXT Stand & Deliver will be on the afternoon of April 6th, right before the first night of WrestleMania 40 in Philadelphia.
– WrestleMania XL will take place on April 6th and 7th at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, airing as a two-part event.
– Backlash France will be held on May 4th at LDLC Arena in Décines-Charpieu, France.
– WWE NXT Battleground is scheduled for May 26th at Enmarket Arena in Savannah, Georgia, and will be available exclusively on the WWE Network and Peacock.
– WWE Money in the Bank will take place on July 6th at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, followed by WWE NXT Heatwave on July 7th at the same venue.
– WWE Bash In Berlin is set for August 31st at Mercedes-Benz Arena in Berlin, Germany.
AEW star Malakai Black recently competed in a singles match and this marks his first singles match since 2022. However, the match didn’t take place in AEW but in his wrestling school, the Dark Arts Gym.
Black has been competing in tag-team action alongside Brody King and Buddy Matthews since returning from injury in October last year. Black had suffered a slight calf tear and knee hyperextension that put him on the shelf for several months. Following his return, fans noticed that Malakai Black has not been competing in singles matches which sparked a rumor.
His last singles match took place in September 2022 when he competed for PRESTIGE. Meanwhile, his last singles match in AEW took place in June 2022.
Malakai Black competes in singles match
For those who are unaware, The House of Black leader runs this school, Dark Arts Gym with his wife, WWE Superstar Zelina Vega. He competed in its latest show.
The Dark Arts Gym recently posted the full show on YouTube from their latest event, Dark Prospects: Ritual 1. Malakai Black headlined the event as he faced Orion. The match also featured AEW commentator Tony Schiavone’s commentary. The match lasted for almost 15 minutes and Malakai hit the Black Mass on his opponent to secure the win.
Last week, former NXT star Bobby Fish also made his presence felt in Malakai Black’s Dark Arts Gym. He paid a visit to share his experience with the up-and-coming superstars.
AEW star Malakai Black recently fired back at a fan, who made bold claims regarding him not competing in singles matches.
The former NXT Champion has been leading The House of Black stable, which comprises of Brody King and Buddy Matthews since returning from injury in October last year.
Black had been recuperating with a slight calf tear and knee hyperextension which put him on the sidelines for several months. However, fans have noticed that Malakai Black has not been competing in singles matches for quite some time now which sparked a rumor.
One of the fans on social media claimed that Black has not only refused to lose singles matches but he has prioritized other talent over himself.
Malakai Black responds
Black couldn’t help but fire back at the fan and called him a “goofb**l” and said that the claim was “bull****” and the former Aleister Black made it clear that he has never refused to lose or put someone over.
“Usually I don’t reply because these laughable takes from goofb*lls like this nerd is why this place is the equivalent of people opening their front doors and screaming their excrement laced opinions into the street, however: bull*****, never happened, isn’t a thing. Happy NY.”
Usually I don’t reply because these laughable takes from goofballs like this nerd is why this place is the equivalent of people opening their front doors and screaming their excrement laced opinions into the street, however: bullshit, never happened, isn’t a thing. Happy ny. https://t.co/5kJ6X3YGjo
It is well noted that Black hasn’t competed in a singles match in over a year and it is something to think about. There were teases that he and Bryan Danielson would ignite a feud last year. However, AEW went in a different direction when Danielson suffered an injury.
It is unclear when Malakai Black will return to singles competition as he continues to compete in trios bouts with the other members of House of Black for the time being. In the past he has expressed his frustrations with the lack of singles matches in AEW. Read more below:
House of Black is competing for the Trios titles against The Elite at AEW Revolution. However, Buddy Matthews thinks Malakai Black should challenge for another AEW championship.
Malakai Black as AEW World Champion
Malakai Black
In an interview on “The Amin Show”, Matthews said he is interested in the “North Atlantic” (sic) title. “I’ll take that and I’ll defend it in Australia. I’ll take it to Australia and I’ll defend it. I will go to Japan and I will defend it. Let me take that to the indie scene. I will defend it.”
“I think Malakai deserves to go for that world title. The AEW World title on Malakai Black– he is an outstanding performer. I’ve been in the ring on his side and on the other side facing off with him. So, he is a world champion competitor.”
Matthews believes Brody King “should be tearing it up with Hobbs. Should be in there tearing it up with Samoa Joe for the TNT title. If I could do my own fantasy booking; you do me versus Orange for the Atlantic title, you do Joe and you do Brody for the TNT Title and then you do whoever the winner is at Revolution between MJF and Bryan. Whoever has that title at the end of the night, throw Malakai in there.”
Would you like to see House of Black have singles championships?
After Orange Cassidy successfully defended the All-Atlantic Championship against Jake Hager, the lights went out. Instead of being Very Evil Danhausen, the lights came up to reveal Julia Hart surrounded by smoke and red lights.
The camera cut back to the ring to show House of Black take out Best Friends, Rocky Romero, and Cassidy. The Factory was happy to see this until they got attacked too. Security attempted to stop them to no avail. Malakai Black told the members of the House of Black to please rise.
Back in September, Malakai Black took time away from AEW. Due to a reported non-compete clause, fans speculated he was trying to go back to WWE. Black broke his silence to say he wasn’t leaving and just taking time off.
The House of Black is set to return to AEW, and in full, the company has confirmed.
The group officially made its debut in January of this year, initially consisting of leader Malakai Black and Brody King.
The following month, Buddy Matthews would join the faction, which would recruit Julia Hart in May.
The Hiatus
At AEW All Out, Black, King and Matthews lost to the trio of Darby Allin, Sting, and Miro, and after the match, Black took a bow to the Chicago crowd.
Many saw this as a sign of Black’s exit from AEW, which was not the case, but the Dutch wrestler did confirm that he would be taking a break from wrestling for an unspecified time.
Not long after, Matthews would also announce his own hiatus from wrestling, though both confirmed they would return to AEW.
The Return
On Twitter, AEW’s official account shared a promo video highlighting the return of the House of Black.
All four members of the group appear in the video, hitting moves on various victims, intermixed with clips from their work on AEW programming.
An ominous voice warns that the human race has made “complacency and sub-par have become both standard and rewarded.”
Malakai Black reportedly asked for his release from All Elite Wrestling but it was denied.
He cut a promo at an independent wrestling event and followed it up with a statement. Malakai confirmed that he requested his release and stated that he needed some time away to “recalibrate” the past two decades of his life.
Buddy Matthews cut a similar promo at an indie show this past weekend and both stars were rumored to be on their way out of the company. Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer has reported that AEW President Tony Khan has opted not to release them from their contracts.
Malakai recently went on Instagram Live and debunked the rumors of his release. The 37-year-old stated that there is no conspiracy to this and he will be back in AEW “soon”.
On a recent edition of Jim Cornette’s Drive-Thru, the wrestling legend discussed the confusing events surrounding Malakai Black and All Elite Wrestling. Cornette said it is a little odd that Malakai Black and Buddy Matthews are both cutting similar promos about taking time away in the midst of all the recent rumors.
I don’t know what this f***ing guy is doing and apparently he doesn’t either. And who knows whether anybody in AEW does. If all of this stuff has been misreported, misdiagnosed, and we got the story all wrong, then what is his tag team partner doing the same exact thing for?
He goes and makes an independent show, Buddy, and says the same thing ‘I need to recalibrate, I’m stepping away for a little while, you’ll see me again soon’, he’s doing the exact same thing.
So what is going on here? It’s awful, I can understand one person having this particular issue come up and want to take some time off, but two people? In the same tag team? In the same company? At the same time? Sounds a little odd doesn’t it? That is all I’m saying. I don’t know what is going on but it sounds a little odd.
Cornette wondered why Malakai didn’t just come out and say “here’s the length of my contract and I’m going to honor it” if there was nothing to the story.
Please credit Jim Cornette’s Drive-Thru with a H/T to SEScoops if you use any quotes from this article.
Malakai Black was back in the tattoo studio this week getting worked on by Orlando-based artist Eddie Saraiva. The House of Black leader posted a video on Instagram showing off his latest piece, a (still in-progress) dragon adorning the left side of his head.
Malakai Black’s Status
Malakai Black is currently on hiatus from pro wrestling. His most recent match for AEW took place at All Out earlier this month. Shortly after that event, there was a slew of information regarding his health and future with AEW.
Amid the chaotic fallout of the All Out post-show media scrum, it was reported that Black was seeking time off due to personal reasons. He was pulled from appearances due to “health issues” and later confirmed that he requested his release from AEW.
Shortly thereafter, Malakai Black “debunked the rumor” that he is leaving AEW. During a live stream on Instagram, he stated, “I will see you guys in a couple of weeks, maybe a couple of months. Like I said, I’m only taking some time off. That’s it. I’m just taking some time off.”
He reiterated that there is no “conspiracy” to his situation, he’s simply taking time off.
“I am fine,” he said.” “I am going to be fine. Everything is fine. You will see me right back with AEW pretty soon. I’m just going to take some time. That is it.”
Buddy Matthews and Malakai Black will be staying with AEW for the foreseeable future despite previous statements teasing their departures.
After taking a bow at the AEW All Out 2022 Pay Per View, it was reported that Black had asked for his release, which the Dutch wrestler confirmed in a statement.
“I did indeed ask for my release.“
Malakai Black.
Last week, Buddy Matthews spoke at an indie event where he also teased an indefinite break from wrestling.
This led to belief among fans that both men were done with the company, with reports that they were hoping on a return to WWE now with Triple H running creative.
Speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer explained that nobody is set to depart AEW following the recent statements from Black and Matthews.
Nobody’s getting released. That’s the doctrine Tony Khan made that very clear I guess in the last couple of days. So now it’s just, he [Malakai Black] is not being released. Buddy Matthews isn’t being released. They may be back sooner than before or whatever but that’s the situation you know.
“You know what the situation is. They were wanting to go and trying to get a way out. I mean which we talked about last night and that was the decision that was made. It’s not to say it’s hard and fast and there would be no way that he [AEW President Tony Khan] will never give anybody a release but I think it’s pretty much the deal.”
Speaking about WWE, Meltzer said this wouldn’t happen in the McMahon-Nick Khan promotion.
“If this happened in the other company [WWE] would those people get releases? The answer is no.”
Dave Meltzer.
WWE has reportedly shown interest in rehiring several former Superstars who have since joined AEW.
Swerve Strickland reportedly referred to WWE to his legal representatives when approached, but is not introduced in a return and Hit Row reunion.
Options
With Black and Matthews seemingly staying with AEW, it remains to be seen when they will return.
Black has said he could be back within a matter of weeks but has given no confirmed timeframe for how long he or Matthews will be gone.
Meltzer sid that Khan could extend the contracts of either man, something seen in the past by WWE.
“Now their option is to sit at home and then he [Khan] can extend the contract if they sit at home, or wrestle. So now they’re going to wrestle. Yeah, kind of a weird thing how that all turned out you know he [Black] waved goodbye and now he’s coming back. You know now he’s gonna blame me [and] you know but that’s what happened. No release.”
For use of these quotes please give a h/t to SEScoops.
Malakai Black and Buddy Matthews of House of Black have been rumored to be on their way out of All Elite Wrestling but apparently, that is not the case.
Malakai spoke at an independent wrestling event recently and said he needed some time to recalibrate. The 37-year-old also recently released a statement that confirmed he requested for his release from All Elite Wrestling.
Buddy Matthews also delivered a promo at an independent wrestling event and echoed a similar sentiment. He stated that he needed to go away for a while and that it wasn’t a goodbye. House of Black member Brody King then sent out a GIF to signify that he was not leaving the company.
Now, Malakai Black is saying that he is taking some time off and will in fact return to All Elite Wrestling in the near future. You can check out his comments and watch the video below.
“Again guys, stop believing these things. It is unbelievable to me. Anyway, I will see you guys in a couple of weeks, maybe a couple of months. Like I said, I’m only taking some time off. That’s it. I’m just taking some time off.
There is no conspiracy to this. I’m just taking some time off. Alright? I will see you guys soon. Take care of yourself, stop believing any other narrative. I’ve debunked it. There is nothing going on.
Don’t believe these people. Don’t write opinions, don’t believe it. Nothing. I am fine. I am going to be fine. Everything is fine. You will see me right back with AEW pretty soon. I’m just going to take some time. That is it.
Last thing before I leave, don’t make me some instrument for this whole ‘tribalism, us versus them thing’ because I don’t do that stuff. I don’t do ‘Team AEW vs. Team WWE’. I don’t play that.”
