Aleister Black’s WWE Return Date Possibly Leaked in SmackDown Vignettes

WWE fans are decoding cryptic clues again—and this time, they think they’ve cracked the mystery around Aleister Black’s return.

For weeks, SmackDown has aired two separate sets of strange vignettes. One has already been solved: Rey Fenix was revealed as the star behind the luchador-style clips, and he’s now confirmed to debut on next week’s episode. But the other darker, more ominous teasers? That’s where things get real interesting.

All signs now point to Aleister Black. The former NXT Champion—who hasn’t been seen in WWE since his run with AEW under the name Malakai Black—has been heavily speculated as the force behind the eerie, shadow-filled promos. Each vignette has featured the number 4 in some way. But this week’s installment showed something new: a flash of the Roman numerals XXV.

Put that together—4 and 25—and fans are convinced it’s pointing directly to April 25.

That Friday is the first episode of SmackDown following WrestleMania 41, and WWE has a long history of dropping surprises right after the biggest show of the year. What better way to kick off the new season than with a returning Aleister Black?

So far, WWE hasn’t confirmed anything, leaving fans to debate whether they’ll announce the return ahead of time—or let the lights go out in shocking fashion live on-air.

Will Aleister Black actually return on April 25, or is WWE throwing out red herrings to keep the suspense alive? What would you want to see from his next run in the company? Drop your thoughts in the comments—we’re watching.