Is Malakai Black Leaving AEW? Speculation Surrounds Former Trios Champion’s Future

The wrestling world is buzzing with rumors that former AEW World Trios Champion Malakai Black may be on his way out of All Elite Wrestling. A new report from Fightful Select suggests that Black might be finishing up with AEW, though no official confirmation has been made. This speculation comes despite earlier statements indicating Black’s AEW contract would run through 2027.

Contract Confusion

Black’s contract status has been the subject of intense discussion for months. According to Fightful, Black’s deal was initially reported to expire in early 2025, with additional option years built in. However, AEW President Tony Khan previously stated that Black was locked in until 2027, raising questions about whether an option year was declined or if Black sought an early exit.

Adding fuel to the fire, Black’s House of Black teammate Buddy Matthews recently faced Will Ospreay on AEW Dynamite. Following the match, Ospreay delivered a promo encouraging Matthews to aim for singles gold, even offering to stand in his corner if needed. Some fans saw this as a potential hint at a shake-up within the faction, though no direct mention of Black was made.

WWE Connection and Speculation

Rumors of Malakai Black returning to WWE have been swirling for some time, especially after Paul “Triple H” Levesque took over creative responsibilities in WWE. Black has publicly praised Triple H, and WWE is reportedly interested in bringing him back to the fold. His wife, Zelina Vega, is currently a prominent member of WWE’s Raw roster, which has only added to the speculation.

Back in September, similar rumors about Black’s AEW departure emerged but were ultimately debunked when he returned to AEW programming. As of now, Black is still listed on AEW’s official roster page, but Fightful noted they were unable to confirm whether his contract has been terminated, renewed, or altered in any way.

What’s Next for Malakai Black?

If Black does leave AEW, the move could have significant implications for both AEW and WWE. Black’s dark, enigmatic persona has been a standout feature of AEW programming, particularly as the leader of the House of Black. His potential departure could signal a shift in AEW’s roster dynamics and storylines. Meanwhile, a WWE return would mark an intriguing chapter in Black’s career, especially under Triple H’s creative direction.

For now, fans will have to wait and see how the story unfolds. Whether he stays with AEW or moves on, one thing is certain: Malakai Black remains one of the most compelling figures in professional wrestling today. Stay tuned to Wrestling News Blog for updates on this developing story.

AEW Dynamite Preview 1/8/2025

AEW Dynamite air live tonight on TBS at 8:00 pm ET and live on Max coast to coast beginning at 8:00 pm ET/5:00 pm PT from the F&M Bank Arena in Clarksville, Tennessee.

  • AEW World Title No. 1 Contenders Match: Casino Gauntlet
  • Buddy Matthews vs. Will Ospreay
  • Bobby Lashley vs. Mark Briscoe
  • Kenny Omega returns live
  • Jeff Jarrett to appear
  • MJF to appear live

Konosuke Takeshita Kicks Off 2025 With Gold, Glory, And A Triple Contract Status

Konosuke Takeshita is setting the wrestling world ablaze as he kicks off 2025 with an unprecedented level of success and a packed schedule. “The Alpha” is now leaving Japan not only with two championship belts but also with contracts from three major promotions: AEW, NJPW, and DDT. Takeshita’s rise in prominence highlights his undeniable talent and the growing collaboration between wrestling companies across the globe.

A Triple Threat Career

Since signing with AEW in 2022, Takeshita has balanced his commitments with DDT while making waves in the U.S. wrestling scene. Now, with a one-year deal freshly inked with NJPW following the Wrestle Dynasty event on January 5, Takeshita has expanded his already busy schedule. Wrestling Observer Radio’s Dave Meltzer shed light on how this unique arrangement works.

“Takeshita’s primary contract is still with AEW,” Meltzer explained. “He can work indies and has been active in Japan with DDT. But now, he’ll be wrestling more for New Japan. AEW remains the priority, but Tony Khan and Rocky Romero are collaborating to ensure he can perform for both AEW and NJPW effectively.”

A Historic Start to 2025

Takeshita’s latest accomplishments in Japan only add to his growing legacy. On January 3, he teamed with his mentor Jun Akiyama at a DDT event. Just one day later, at NJPW’s Wrestle Kingdom 19, he defeated Shingo Takagi to claim the NEVER Openweight Championship. The momentum didn’t stop there. At the Wrestle Dynasty event on January 5, Takeshita retained both the NEVER Openweight and AEW International Championships in a hard-fought battle against Tomohiro Ishii.

With two championships to defend and three promotions to juggle, Takeshita is set for a whirlwind year. His next major challenge will come at NJPW’s Battle in the Valley on January 11, where he’ll defend his NEVER Openweight Championship against KUSHIDA.

Collaboration Across Promotions

Takeshita’s triple-contract situation is a testament to the evolving wrestling landscape. The collaboration between AEW, NJPW, and DDT highlights a willingness among promotions to share talent and provide fans with unforgettable matches. For Takeshita, this means greater opportunities to showcase his skills on multiple platforms, while for fans, it promises exciting cross-promotional matchups in 2025.

As Takeshita embarks on this monumental chapter in his career, one thing is clear: “The Alpha” is poised to dominate the wrestling world and redefine what it means to be an international star. Stay tuned to see how he balances this historic run!

NJPW x AEW Wrestle Dynasty 1/5/2025 (Results)

Sorry for this post being so late, but here in Southern Indiana we are dealing with problems from a winter storm with a lot of ice from freezing rain that left a lot of people without power from frozen tree limps falling on power lines. Some are still without power.

So below is the results from Wrestle Dynasty:

Pre-Show:

  • Momo Watanabe def. Athena, Persephone, and Willow Nightingale via pinfall to win the International Women’s Cup
    Momo Watanabe triumphed in a thrilling four-way bout against Athena, Persephone, and Willow Nightingale to claim the International Women’s Cup. The match featured fast-paced action with wrestlers rotating in and out of the ring to break up pinfalls. Athena appeared poised for victory after hitting her O-Face on Willow, but interference from Thekla pulling the referee out gave Watanabe an opening. She capitalized by using her signature bat and finishing with Peach Sunrise to score the pin on Athena. This marked Athena’s first pinfall loss in two years, a point commentary emphasized. Watanabe now has the opportunity to challenge any champion of her choosing.
  • Sons of Texas (Dustin Rhodes & Sammy Guevara) def. House of Torture (SHO & Yoshinobu Kanemaru) via pinfall to retain the Ring of Honor Tag titles
    Dustin Rhodes and Sammy Guevara defeated House of Torture’s SHO and Yoshinobu Kanemaru to retain their ROH Tag Team Championships. Guevara started hot before the challengers’ underhanded tactics slowed him down. A hot tag to Dustin brought the crowd to life as he hit signature moves. After whiskey mist antics from Kanemaru, Rhodes returned the favor and set up Guevara to seal the victory with a 630 Splash.

Main Card:

  • Taiji Ishimori wins the 8-Man Lucha Gauntlet
    In an eight-man lucha gauntlet, Taiji Ishimori outlasted competitors including El Desperado, Hechicero, and Titan to secure the win. Desperado, the new IWGP Junior Heavyweight Champion, became the primary target, enduring finishers from several participants. Ishimori used clever strategy, throwing the referee onto Desperado and Kosei Fujita before applying the Gedo Clutch on the champ to steal the victory.
  • Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Katsuyori Shibata’s five-minute exhibition match ends in a draw
    The exhibition match between two legends ended in a five-minute time-limit draw. The grappling-focused bout carried emotional weight for fans familiar with their storied history, as every lock-up and chop exchange felt significant.
  • Mercedes Moné  def. Mina Shirakawa via pinfall to win the RevPro British Women’s championship
    Mercedes Moné added another title to her collection, defeating Mina Shirakawa in a hard-fought contest. Shirakawa targeted Moné’s knee throughout the match, but Mercedes adapted, using her resilience to stay in the fight. A Moné Maker sealed the deal, though Shirakawa rejected a post-match handshake in frustration.
  • David Finlay def. Brody King via pinfall
    The Bullet Club War Dogs leader overcame Brody King in a physical clash. King dominated early with his size and power, but Finlay exploited an opening with an eye poke, eventually hitting Overkill for the win. Post-match, Finlay seemed preoccupied with the loss of his IWGP Global title at Wrestle Kingdom.
  • Shota Umino def. Claudio Castagnoli via pinfall
    Shota Umino defeated Claudio Castagnoli in a statement-making victory. Claudio dominated early, using his power and technical prowess, but Umino rallied with Moxley-inspired elbow strikes and a Death Rider to secure the pin.
  • Konosuke Takeshita def. Tomohiro Ishii via pinfall to retain New Japan’s NEVER Openweight title & AEW International title
    One night after claiming the NEVER Openweight title, Konosuke Takeshita successfully defended it alongside his AEW International Championship against Tomohiro Ishii. The match was a brutal affair, with both men exchanging stiff strikes and power moves. Takeshita ultimately prevailed with his Raging Fire finisher.
  • Young Bucks def. Great-O-Khan & Jeff Cobb and Tetsuya Naito & Hiromu Takahashi to win the vacant IWGP Tag Team titles
    The Young Bucks emerged victorious in a chaotic triple-threat match against Great-O-Khan & Jeff Cobb and LIJ’s Tetsuya Naito & Hiromu Takahashi. True to form, the Bucks waited for their moments before diving into the action. They outlasted their opponents and sealed the win with a TK Driver, securing the vacant IWGP Tag Team Championships.
  • Yota Tsuji def. Jack Perry to retain the IWGP Global championship
    Yota Tsuji retained his newly won IWGP Global Championship in a match against Jack Perry. Perry played the heel, using dirty tactics to target Tsuji’s back. Despite Perry’s nearfalls, Tsuji rallied with a Gene Blaster spear to secure the win.
  • Kenny Omega def. Gabe Kidd via pinfall
    Kenny Omega’s return to action was a violent showdown with Gabe Kidd. The match featured suplexes, table spots, and even steel chair exchanges. Despite Kidd’s resilience and brutal piledrivers, Omega hit Kamigoye and the One-Winged Angel to emerge victorious. Post-match, NJPW President Hiroshi Tanahashi was seen visibly emotional, suggesting Kidd’s promising future.
  • Zack Sabre Jr. def. Ricochet via submission to retain the IWGP World Heavyweight championship
    In the night’s main event, Zack Sabre Jr. retained the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship in a highly technical match against Ricochet. Ricochet’s high-flying offense was countered by Sabre’s calculated submission holds. After dodging a 630 splash, Sabre locked in The Inexorable March of Progress, forcing Ricochet to submit. Sabre closed the show with a passionate promo reaffirming his loyalty to NJPW and TMDK.

AEW Collision Preview 1/4/2025

AEW Collision live tonight on TNT & streaming on Max from the Bojangles Coliseum in Charlotte, NC.

  • The Learning Tree vs. Rated FTR
  • AEW World Tag Team Championship: Private Party (c) vs. Action Andretti & Lio Rush
  • AEW TNT Championship: Daniel Garcia (c) vs. Mark Briscoe
  • Deonna Purrazzo vs. Toni Storm
  • Jeff Jarrett in action
  • Rock N’ Roll Express expected to appear

There will be a special meet and greet before the show with legends Rock N’ Roll Express

NJPW x AEW Wrestle Dynasty 1/5/2025

NJPW (New Japan Pro Wrestling) recently announced the full card of their upcoming Wrestle Dynasty PPV event that will see wrestlers from NJPW, AEW, STARDOM, ROH and CMLL compete.

The NJPW x AEW: Wrestle Dynasty PPV is set to take place on Sunday, January 5th, 2025, from the Tokyo Dome in Tokyo, Japan.

You can check out the full card below:

Kenny Omega vs. Gabe Kidd

Zack Sabre Jr. vs. Ricochet

Claudio Castagnoli vs. Shota Umio

David Finlay vs. Brody King

Jack Perry vs. Yota Tsuji

NEVER Openweight Championship Match
Shingo Takagi or Konosuke Takeshita (c) vs. Tomohiro Ishii

IWGP Tag Team Championship Decider Match
Great-O-Khan and a Mystery Partner vs. The Young Bucks (Matthew Jackson and Nicholas Jackson) vs. Tetsuya Naito & Hiromu Takahashi,

NJPW STRONG Women’s Championship and RevPro Undisputed British Women’s Championship Match
“The CEO” Mercedes Moné (c) [NJPW STRONG Women’s Champion] vs. Mina Shirakawa (c) [RevPro Undisputed British Women’s Champion]

Lucha Gauntlet Match
Four NJPW Stars and Four CMLL Stars Will Compete

Kickoff Match #1
International Women’s Cup Fatal Four Way Match
Momo Watanabe (STARDOM) vs. Willow Nightingale (AEW) vs. Persephone (CMLL) vs. Athena (ROH)

Kickoff Match #2
ROH World Tag Team Championship Match
The Sons Of Texas (Dustin Rhodes and Sammy Guevara) (c) vs. House Of Torture (Yoshinobu Kanemaru and SHO)

Jeff Jarrett Signs Final Talent Deal with AEW: “The Last Outlaw” Eyes AEW World Championship

Jeff Jarrett, known as “The Last Outlaw,” made waves during the Fight for the Fallen edition of AEW Dynamite with a monumental announcement about his wrestling future. The multi-time champion and wrestling veteran revealed that he has re-signed with All Elite Wrestling, but there’s a twist—this will be the last in-ring talent deal of his storied career.

A Moment of Reflection

The announcement began backstage, where Jarrett was seen discussing his decision with his wife, Karen Jarrett, alongside long-time allies Jay Lethal, Satnam Singh, and Sonjay Dutt. Though they questioned whether he was certain about his choice, Jarrett remained resolute.

Later, he entered the ring for an emotional address, his guitar on a stand in the middle of the ring, boots slung around his neck—a symbolic nod to the possibility of retirement. Reflecting on his wrestling lineage, Jarrett posed the ultimate question: should “The Last Outlaw” ride off into the sunset? His answer? A resounding “Hell no!

Jarrett vowed that while this new contract marks the final chapter of his in-ring career, it will also be one of his most determined. He proclaimed he still has fuel left in the tank and plans to leave it all in the ring during this last run.

Setting His Sights on Gold

In true Jeff Jarrett fashion, the wrestling legend made it clear he’s not just sticking around to take a victory lap. He has his sights set firmly on the AEW World Championship, declaring it the ultimate goal of his final chapter. Not interested in the AEW Tag Team or Trios titles, Jarrett emphasized that the World Championship is the prize that matters most to him.

To back up his words, Jarrett announced his participation in the upcoming Casino Gauntlet Match on the January 8 episode of AEW Dynamite—an opportunity that could pave his path to the coveted AEW World Championship.

The Legacy of “The Last Outlaw”

Jeff Jarrett’s career spans decades, promotions, and generations, making him one of the most enduring figures in professional wrestling. This announcement not only solidifies his role in AEW’s immediate future but also highlights his unwavering passion for the business.

As “The Last Outlaw” embarks on his final ride, fans can expect vintage Jarrett—grit, charisma, and an unrelenting drive to etch his name among AEW’s elite. Whether he captures the AEW World Championship or not, this last run promises to be one for the history books.

Stay tuned to AEW Dynamite to see how this chapter of Jeff Jarrett’s illustrious career unfolds!

AEW Dynamite ‘Fight for the Fallen’ Preview 1/1/2025

AEW Dynamite Fight for the Fallen live on TBS from Harrah’s Cherokee Center in Asheville, NC.

Fight for The Fallen is a benefit for hurricane relief for the Asheville, NC area.

Help provide support and resources to those affected by Hurricane Helene in Asheville, NC by making a donation to organizations on the frontlines of disaster relief efforts.

Fallout from Worlds End

Rated FTR (Adam Copeland, Dax Harwood & Cash Wheeler) vs. The Death Riders (Jon Moxley, Wheeler Yuta & Claudio Castagnoli)

Julia Hart vs. Jamie Hayter

Jeff Jarrett to make an announcement regarding his future

AEW Worlds End 12/28/2024 (Results) – Kenny Omega & Adam Copeland Return

Zero Hour Results

Leila Grey vs. Toni Storm
A technical start saw both women trade holds before Toni Storm shifted momentum with a running hip attack and a Fisherman suplex. Leila Grey fought valiantly, delivering a diving blockbuster for a near fall, but it wasn’t enough.
Winner: Toni Storm via pinfall with an inside cradle.


Jeff Jarrett vs. QT Marshall
QT showed off his antics early with a celebratory dance after a takedown, but Jarrett fired back with his signature Fargo Strut. Despite interference from Aaron Solo and outside chaos involving Jay Lethal, Jarrett sealed the win.
Winner: Jeff Jarrett via pinfall with the Stroke.


Action Andretti, Lio Rush, & Murder Machines vs. The Outrunners & Top Flight
This eight-man tag match saw chaos unfold with fast-paced action. Despite tensions within their team, Lio Rush tagged himself in to hit a frog splash on Dante Martin for the victory. Post-match, the Murder Machines weren’t pleased with Rush stealing the spotlight.
Winners: Action Andretti, Lio Rush, & Murder Machines.


Main Card Highlights

Kyle Fletcher vs. Will Ospreay (AEW Continental Classic Semifinal)
A physical and blood-soaked battle saw both men push each other to their limits. Fletcher’s arrogance cost him as Ospreay countered into a devastating Styles Clash to secure the win.
Winner: Will Ospreay via pinfall.


Kazuchika Okada vs. Ricochet (AEW Continental Classic Semifinal)
A back-and-forth war highlighted Ricochet’s agility and Okada’s resilience. Despite Ricochet’s relentless offense, Okada ended it with the Rainmaker.
Winner: Kazuchika Okada via pinfall.
Post-match, Shane “Swerve” Strickland embarrassed Ricochet by orchestrating a public toilet paper prank.


Mariah May (c) vs. Thunder Rosa (AEW Women’s World Championship – Tijuana Street Fight)
This brutal contest featured thumbtacks, barbed wire, and interference involving Thunder Rosa’s family. May’s resilience and vicious Storm Zero through a table retained her title.
Winner: Mariah May via pinfall.


Adam Cole vs. MJF (c) (AEW Dynamite Diamond Ring)
MJF’s underhanded tactics, including faking an attack to get Cole’s allies ejected, showcased his mastery of mind games. After a heated bout, MJF retained with a Heatseeker, solidifying his reign.
Winner: MJF via pinfall.
Post-match, Roderick Strong and Kyle O’Reilly reunited with Cole to deliver justice to MJF.


Konosuke Takeshita (c) vs. Powerhouse Hobbs (AEW International Championship)
Takeshita’s agility met Hobbs’ raw power in a hard-hitting showdown. Despite Hobbs’ nearfalls, Takeshita retained with his devastating Raging Fire.
Winner: Konosuke Takeshita via pinfall.


Kris Statlander vs. Mercedes Mone (c) (AEW TBS Championship)
A brutal battle saw Mone utilize innovative offense, including a piledriver on the floor and targeting Statlander’s leg. Statlander’s resilience fell just short, with Mone escaping with a clever crucifix pin.
Winner: Mercedes Mone via pinfall.


Kazuchika Okada vs. Will Ospreay (AEW Continental Classic Finals)
The grand finale lived up to its billing as Okada and Ospreay gave it their all. Despite Ospreay’s fiery effort, Okada secured victory with the Rainmaker, cementing his legacy as the Continental Classic Champion.

Winner: Kazuchika Okada via pinfall.
Post-match: Kenny Omega returned to AEW, presenting Okada with the title in a historic moment.


Main Event: AEW World Championship

Jon Moxley (c) vs. Adam Page vs. Jay White vs. Orange Cassidy
This chaotic fatal four-way was filled with alliances, betrayals, and sheer carnage. Moxley retained after delivering a Death Rider to Jay White, but the drama didn’t end there.

Post-match: FTR and the returning Adam Copeland (fka Edge) joined forces to lay waste to Moxley and the Death Riders. The Patriarchy leave their skybox, Adam stomps the crossbar out of a chair and chokes Jon out with it! Copeland calls Moxley out and calls him “kid” because he was growing pubes when he started doing this, and he says Rated FTR are taking Death Riders out.
Winner: Jon Moxley via pinfall.


Final Thoughts

Worlds End delivered unforgettable moments, from Okada’s triumph to the return of Kenny Omega and Adam Copeland. AEW has set the stage for an electric 2025. Stay tuned for more on these developing stories!

AEW Rampage (Final Episode) Preview 12/27/2024

All Elite Wrestling has announced the lineup for tonight’s AEW Rampage, which will be the last episode on TNT.

  • Chris Jericho vs. Anthony Bowens
  • Nick Wayne vs. HOOK
  • Thunder Rosa vs. Leila Grey
  • Private Party vs. TBD