Major AEW Star Finally Confirms WWE Return
Former AEW star Malakai Black shares fan-made highlight reel on Instagram, intensifying rumors of his imminent WWE return amid creative plans allegedly being developed for him.
All Elite Wrestling (AEW) is an American professional wrestling promotion founded on January 1, 2019, by Tony Khan. His father, Shahid Khan, provided financial backing. Based in Jacksonville, Florida, AEW quickly positioned itself as a major alternative to WWE.
Cody Rhodes, The Young Bucks (Matt and Nick Jackson), and Kenny Omega played key roles in establishing AEW’s identity. They also served as executive vice presidents, shaping the company’s creative direction. As a result, AEW attracted a dedicated fanbase from its early days.
On May 25, 2019, AEW held its first major event, Double or Nothing, in Las Vegas. The show received widespread praise and signaled AEW’s arrival on the national stage. Shortly after, AEW signed a television deal with TNT, launching AEW Dynamite in October 2019.
Unlike many competitors, AEW emphasized athletic matches, long-term storytelling, and creative freedom for wrestlers. Moreover, it introduced new concepts, such as the TNT Championship and the Trios Championships, to differentiate itself.
Throughout its growth, AEW signed top names like Chris Jericho, Jon Moxley, and CM Punk, boosting its credibility. It also formed partnerships with NJPW, Impact Wrestling, and AAA, allowing cross-promotional matches and appearances.
Despite facing competition and challenges, AEW expanded rapidly. It launched additional programs like Rampage, Collision, and ROH-branded events. Furthermore, AEW consistently sold out major venues and drew strong television ratings.
Today, AEW stands as the second-largest wrestling promotion in the United States. It continues to challenge industry norms and push professional wrestling into a new era.
Former AEW star Malakai Black shares fan-made highlight reel on Instagram, intensifying rumors of his imminent WWE return amid creative plans allegedly being developed for him.
WWE's Creative Writing Team reportedly working on storylines for Rey Fenix's main roster debut, suggesting imminent signing despite previous contract complications with AEW.
Wrestling veteran Bill Apter addresses Ryan Nemeth's lawsuit against CM Punk and Tony Khan during Sportskeeda's Wrestling Time Machine podcast, noting accusers must prove claims.
AEW TBS Champion Mercedes Mone reveals she contemplated walking away from wrestling after her 2022 WWE exit, citing the emotional toll and darkness that followed her departure.
Dave Meltzer reports Malakai Black's WWE return is "imminent" following his AEW exit, with social media activity and family connections further fueling comeback speculation.
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PWInsider Elite reports Leyla Hirsch will depart AEW on February 28 when her contract expires, joining recent exits of Malakai Black, Miro, and Ricky Starks from the promotion.
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Former AEW World Champion Swerve Strickland makes his first appearance since February 5 on tomorrow's Dynamite alongside Prince Nana following the ongoing situation with Ricochet.
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PWInsider reports WWE, Cody Rhodes, and Fanatics receive filing extension until April 7 to respond to musician Wesley Eisold's trademark infringement lawsuit over "American Nightmare" merchandise.
Former WWE star Ricochet responds to AEW's signing of "Speedball" Mike Bailey with a direct challenge on social media, promising to "squash" the former X Division Champion.
Former AEW star Penta suffers first WWE loss in three-way match against Ludwig Kaiser and Pete Dunne while maintaining undefeated singles record since January debut.
Mexican star Penta faces Pete Dunne and Ludwig Kaiser in tonight's Triple Threat match on RAW, with potential for dominance similar to Roman Reigns' WrestleMania 37 strategy.