AEW Reportedly Denies ‘Active Negotiations’ With Aleister Black

As previously reported, a rumor surfaced earlier today, per SEScoops, that former WWE Superstar Aleister Black was in “active negotiations” with AEW regarding a possible return. Fightful Select has an update on the matter, with a public response from AEW.

SEScoops’ earlier report indicated that “a source with direct knowledge of the discussions” said talks between Black and AEW were happening “regardless of the public framing” of Black possibly not being welcomed back in AEW. However, Fightful Select reports that AEW is outwardly denying that any talks with Black (nee Tom Budgen) are taking place at the moment.

As previously noted, Black still has over two months left where he’s still under contract with WWE and his 90-day period is complete, with Fightful stating “anything can happen between now and then.” However, AEW is at least publicly denying that any current talks with Black.

An earlier report from Fightful’s Sean Ross Sapp indicated that the bridge between AEW and Black was not burned. That would suggest the door on a possible Black return to AEW is not completely closed.

Aleister Black previously wrestled in AEW from 2021 to 2024 under the ring name of Aleister Black. He also formed the House of Block stable, later winning the AEW World Trios Titles with Buddy Matthews and Brody King.

Black was among WWE’s multiple talent releases last month, including his wife, former WWE Women’s United States Champion Zelina Vega.