As noted before, Malakai Black’s contract with AEW expired earlier this month and he is currently expected to be returning to WWE. Rey Fenix’s contract had been originally set to expire this past September but AEW had added almost a full year’s worth of injury time to his contract and have had no plans to release him.
Dave Meltzer reported in this week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter that his sources stated that Black is currently expected to be making his return to WWE imminently.
In regards to Fenix, Meltzer reported that WWE officials are currently working on creative plans for Fenix’s debut in the company. Meltzer also reported that there has been no confirmation that Fenix has been released from his AEW contract at the moment.

The Butcher on His Current AEW Abscense & Being Hopeful To Make AEW In-Ring Return
WWE NXT Notes: Wren Sinclair Advances in WWE Speed Women’s Title #1 Contender Tourn., Shayna Baszler Surprise Appearance, Street Fight Stip Set for Jaida Parker vs. Blake Monre and Tony D’Angelo vs. Dion Lennox Matches Set for NXT Vengeance Day 2026, 3/10 Show Card
Bobby Lashley Provides Update on His Injury Status & Potential Return Plans




