Malakai Black Leaves AEW, WWE Return Likely

Malakai Black, formerly known as Aleister Black in WWE, has officially left AEW as his contract expired, and his profile has been removed from AEW's roster page, fueling speculation about a potential return to WWE. AEW has rebranded Black's faction, the House of Black, to the Hounds of Hell, indicating a shift in their storyline direction. Meanwhile, AJ Styles has made a return to WWE's RAW after a 623-day absence, hinting at potential participation in upcoming events like the Elimination Chamber. WWE is also preparing for WrestleMania 41, with qualifying matches for an Elimination Chamber match that will determine who faces a champion at the event. Ricky Starks, another AEW talent, is reportedly no longer associated with the company despite his contract running until 2025, as he seeks opportunities elsewhere. His status remains unconfirmed, but he continues to perform with other wrestling promotions.