NEWS - Malakai BACK In AEW?
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The WhatCulture Wrestling podcast dives into the latest wrestling news, focusing on Malakai Black's sudden release from WWE and the speculation surrounding his potential return to AEW. Hosts Adam Wilborn and Andy H Murray discuss conflicting reports—Fightful Select suggesting Malakai won't return to AEW anytime soon, while Jim Ross notes that bridges aren't completely burned, leaving the door open. They analyze Malakai’s complex history with AEW, his creative brilliance, and the rumors of unreliability, while weighing his fit in AEW’s current roster versus opportunities in TNA or Japan. The conversation shifts to WWE’s alleged aversion to 'spooky' gimmicks, citing the release of Aleister Black, Zelina Vega, and the entire Wyatt Six as evidence. The hosts debate the viability of dark characters in modern wrestling, with playful takes on reimagining gimmicks like turning Dexter Lumis into a postman. Finally, they celebrate Bianca Belair’s announcement of her pregnancy, highlighting the physical toll of her injury and the difficult balance female wrestlers face between career and family life, praising her decision as empowering and heartfelt.
Malakai Black’s WWE release has sparked speculation about a potential return to AEW, though current reports suggest it’s unlikely in the near term.
Jim Ross believes the door isn’t closed on Malakai’s return to AEW, but trust and role clarity will be key factors.
WWE may be moving away from dark, supernatural gimmicks, with recent releases of Aleister Black and the Wyatt Six possibly reflecting a shift in creative direction.
Bianca Belair’s pregnancy announcement highlights the real-life challenges female wrestlers face in balancing stardom with family planning.
Malakai Black’s creative talent and detailed storytelling make him a strong fit for promotions like TNA or Japan, where he could be a top star.
…and 1 more takeaway available in PodZeus
Malakai Black’s WWE Release and AEW Return Speculation
“I don't think that bridges were burned, says Jim, but I think that his chances are running out. Trust is a big thing, man. Are you reliable?”
WWE’s Alleged Dislike of 'Spooky' Gimmicks
“I don't really... You can make the argument that why wouldn't you just change their gimmick? Can you imagine Aleister Black doing just a straight-up happy baby thing?”
Reimagining Dark Gimmicks: From Postman to Postie
The hosts playfully suggest rebranding dark characters—like turning Dexter Lumis into a postman—highlighting the absurdity of supernatural abilities in wrestling and celebrating the humor in creative reinvention.
Bianca Belair’s Pregnancy Announcement and Career-Family Balance
“If she turns around and says, you know what? Yeah. It's a family thing for me. Absolutely fair enough.”
“If she turns around and says, you know what? Yeah. It's a family thing for me. Absolutely fair enough.”
“I've sacrificed enough and I'm ready to have a baby. I've always wanted to have a baby. Not getting any younger.”
“I don't think that bridges were burned, says Jim, but I think that his chances are running out. Trust is a big thing, man. Are you reliable?”
Hosts
Malakai Black
person
WWE
organization
AEW
organization
Bianca Belair
person
Jim Ross
person
Alistair Black
person
Tommy End
person
Wyatt Six
organization
The Undertaker
person
Zelina Vega
person
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