Malakai Black’s AEW Status in Question as Buddy Matthews Responds to Will Ospreay

Speculation about Malakai Black’s future with AEW has intensified following recent events on AEW Dynamite.

On the January 8th episode, Will Ospreay defeated Buddy Matthews and delivered a pointed message, encouraging Matthews to “step out of the shadow of Malakai Black.” This comment immediately sparked rumors about Black’s standing in the company.

Reports surfaced that indicated that Black may be finishing up with AEW, although there is no confirmation on whether his contract has officially ended or if he will make any further appearances. A source within AEW shared, “Those that we spoke to in the company were of the belief that he was finishing up with AEW if he hadn’t already.” However, there’s been no official word regarding Black’s status or how it might be addressed on-screen.

While earlier reports stated that Black’s AEW contract included option years extending past 2025, Tony Khan previously mentioned that Black was signed through 2027. The current status of these contractual options remains unclear, leaving fans and insiders alike wondering about Black’s next move. As of now, Malakai Black is still listed on AEW’s official website.

After his loss to Ospreay, Buddy Matthews responded to the former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion in a digital exclusive, reflecting on the match and the aftermath.

“2024 is in the books. 2025 is the now, and it’s upon us. I didn’t start my 2025 the way I was hoping, especially leading into Grand Slam in Australia next month. But for years, Will’s heard my name, and for years, I’ve heard Will’s. Tonight, these names came together. Will, even though you put a hiccup in my 2025, your words tonight didn’t go to deaf ears,” Matthews said.

Matthews, a member of the House of Black, is clearly at a crossroads as rumors surrounding Malakai Black’s absence continue to swirl. Black has not appeared on AEW programming since competing at AEW Full Gear, leaving fans speculating about the future of the House of Black stable.

With questions surrounding Black’s status and Ospreay extending an olive branch to Matthews, the dynamics within AEW’s factions may soon take an intriguing turn.

Do you think Malakai Black is done with AEW? Will Buddy Matthews find a new direction, or will the House of Black regroup? Share your thoughts in the comments below!