AEW Star Discusses Personal Moment With Malakai Black Before Departure

Adam Cole has opened up about a personal moment with Malakai Black from AEW Dynamite which saw them embrace.

Reflecting on a shared embrace that took place after Black’s last singles match on AEW Dynamite in November 2024, Adam Cole has opened up about that moment.

Highlights from the match, including the embrace, can be seen below this news story, with Cole going on to discuss its meaning during an episode of In The Kliq.

Speaking about their history together, Cole would also reveal that he was and is unaware of Black’s plans, saying:

“No, no. I really didn’t (know what was happening with Malakai Black & AEW when we had our moment on Dynamite).

“So, again, I do have a history of working with Malakai. Just an unbelievable opponent, an unbelievable guy to step in there with and we’ve shared a lot of really, really cool moments together. So for me, all it was… this personal moment between two guys who have a lot of respect for each other.

“I don’t know anything about — or didn’t know anything about what his plans were or anything like that. For me, it was just a cool moment with a friend after getting to work together for a long time.”

Black was removed from the AEW roster page, indicating that his time in the company may have come to an end

The report also noted that Black’s AEW contract expired on February 9, 2025, with him now being a free agent and expected to return to WWE.

While Malakai Black’s future may not be known, WWE creative has reportedly been talking about the former star’s return along with Miro, previously Rusev.

Following AEW Full Gear in November 2024, with Black & Brody King unsuccessful in their attempt to become World Tag Team Champions, the House of Black leader has been absent from television.

In January 2025, the absence was referenced on AEW Dynamite with Cope suggesting it was time for Brody King to take over.

King would also file a trademark application for the term “Hounds of Hell” which is the group’s new faction name.

Transcript from Post Wrestling.