NXT Star Returns After Year-Long Injury Layoff

Malik Blade is officially back in action after missing over a year due to a torn ACL.

The NXT star made his return at a live event on Friday night, November 21, in Bartow, Florida, where he competed in his first match since October 2024.

Blade faced Aigle Blanc in singles action at the house show, ultimately coming up short, but the real victory was simply stepping back into the ring. His last match before the injury took place during a taping of NXT Level Up on October 15, 2024.

The torn ACL sidelined Blade for more than 12 months, but he took to social media following his return with a message of celebration. Reacting to news of his match, Blade posted, “We are so back !”

Despite the loss to Blanc, Blade’s return marks an important step forward as he begins his climb back into the NXT spotlight. It’s currently unclear when he’ll appear next on television, but returning to in-ring competition is a strong sign that he’s fully cleared and ready to go.

Are you excited to see Malik Blade back in NXT? What kind of direction should he take now that he’s returned? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.