AEW Seemingly Writes Malakai Black Off Television During 1/11 Collision

AEW’s January 11 edition of Collision might have given fans the biggest hint yet about Malakai Black’s status with the company. A backstage segment involving Adam Copeland and Brodie King has fans speculating that AEW has officially moved on from the enigmatic leader of the House of Black.

During the second half of the show, Adam Copeland approached Brodie King backstage and dropped a surprising suggestion. Copeland told King, “Take the reins and run,” hinting that it might be time for King to take control and lead his own path. This interaction seemed to solidify the idea that Malakai Black won’t be returning to AEW, leaving his faction without its namesake leader.

Adding to the speculation, Julia Hart—another member of the House of Black—has previously spoken cryptically about Black’s departure. While AEW hasn’t confirmed anything officially, it appears the company is preparing to rebrand or transition the stable without him.

Malakai Black’s absence from AEW programming has been a hot topic for months, with reports indicating he could become a free agent as early as February or March 2025. Black, who joined AEW in 2021 and quickly became a standout figure, has taken independent bookings recently, further suggesting his AEW days are numbered.

The timing couldn’t be more interesting. Black’s wife, Zelina Vega, is currently thriving in WWE, and with Triple H now in charge of WWE’s creative direction, the door seems wide open for Black’s return to his old stomping grounds. Triple H, who pushed Black heavily during his NXT days, would likely welcome him back with open arms.

As for AEW, the House of Black’s future is now in Brodie King’s hands. With Copeland’s encouragement and Hart already carving out her own solo path, the faction could take on a completely new direction.

Malakai Black’s potential exit marks a pivotal moment for both AEW and WWE. Will fans see the former Aleister Black reignite his WWE career, or does he have a completely different plan in mind?

What do you think is next for Malakai Black? Should Brodie King lead the House of Black in a new direction, or does the group end without its namesake leader? Drop your thoughts in the comments!