Aleister Black could reportedly be heading back to All Elite Wrestling following his recent WWE departure.

Black was among the wrestlers released as part of WWE’s post-WrestleMania 42 roster cuts announced on April 24, 2026. His release came roughly one year after he returned to WWE in April 2025 following a previous run in AEW that lasted from 2021 through 2025.

According to a new report from SEScoops.com’s Michael Reichlin, “a source with direct knowledge of the discussions” claims that Black and AEW are currently in talks regarding a possible return to the company.

Aleister Black AEW return talks

The report comes shortly after public comments from Jim Ross and Tony Schiavone discussing Black and his standing within AEW.

Speaking on his Grilling JR podcast, Ross said he does not believe Black damaged his relationship with AEW despite previous reports of backstage issues during his earlier run.

“No, I do not (believe Black has burned his bridge with AEW). But I think that his chances are running out,” Ross said.

“Trust is a big thing. Reliability. Are you reliable? There is I’m sure a small faction of some in the wrestling business that believe he’s missing something. I don’t disagree with that. But he’s not missing his attire, his look, his work ethic. So whatever his downfalls are, they seem to be stimulated from things outside the bell-to-bell. But I like the guy. I’d hire him in a heartbeat.”

Ross’ comments reflected both support for Black’s talent and lingering concerns some within wrestling may still have about issues outside the ring.

Schiavone also addressed Black’s WWE release during an episode of the What Happened When podcast.

“I was surprised, really, that they [WWE] released Malakai [Black] because he and I are friends. I haven’t really had a chance to talk to him since that time,” Schiavone said.

Black originally joined AEW in 2021 shortly after his first WWE release and quickly became a featured part of the company through the House of Black faction. During that run, he worked alongside Brody King, Buddy Matthews, and Julia Hart, becoming one of AEW’s darker and more visually distinctive acts.

His return to WWE in 2025 was viewed as a significant signing at the time, particularly because WWE had reportedly made a strong effort to bring him back from AEW. However, his second stint with the company lasted just over a year before the latest round of roster cuts.

At this stage, no deal has been officially confirmed, but the report indicates discussions between Black and AEW are ongoing.

Aleister Black Reportedly in Talks for AEW Return

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