Malakai Black’s AEW Contract Status Raises Questions About WWE Return

Malakai Black’s contract situation has wrestling fans on edge, especially with WWE’s Royal Rumble around the corner. Many assumed Black was on his way out of AEW, but new details suggest the situation isn’t as clear-cut as previously thought.

Fightful Select reports that AEW still has Black listed on its official website, which has traditionally been a strong indicator of who remains under contract with the company.

Over the last few weeks, reports indicated that Black’s deal with AEW was set to expire between February and March 2025, fueling speculation that he could be WWE-bound once he becomes a free agent. Earlier reports also suggested that WWE creative had discussed potential storylines for his return, adding to the belief that his comeback was just a matter of time. However, with AEW still officially recognizing him as part of its roster, it raises the question of whether he’s truly done with the company or if there are remaining obligations that need to be fulfilled.

AEW has taken a hard stance in recent months regarding talent departures, with some wrestlers locked into longer deals than initially expected due to contract extensions or rollovers.

This murky situation has also led to speculation about whether Black could still appear at the Royal Rumble. While the believed expiration of his contract in early 2025 would rule out an immediate WWE return, AEW’s website listing throws another layer of mystery into the equation. If his deal hasn’t officially ended, there’s a chance he may not be able to jump ship as soon as some expected.

Malakai Black’s next move is still a question mark. WWE seems eager to bring him back, but AEW’s roster listing suggests his exit isn’t complete yet. Will he finish out his AEW deal, or is there an undisclosed clause keeping him under contract longer? Fans are left wondering if Black will be free to make a shocking WWE return soon or if his AEW stint isn’t over just yet.

Where do you think he ends up next? Drop your thoughts in the comments!