Backstage News On How Aleister Black Was Able To Appear On AEW Dynamite

 

Aleister Black, now known as Malakai Black, makes a surprise appearance on tonight's episode of AEW Dynamite: Road Rager.

The lights went out and returned on during Cody Rhodes' South Beach Strap Match with QT Marshall in the opener. The terrible weather had been messing with the lights all day, according to the commentary.

Tony Schiavone interviewed Arn Anderson in the ring later in the show, with the lights going out and on yet again. When Black entered the ring this time, he immediately downed Anderson with a black mass (roundhouse kick to the face). Cody Rhodes rushed to the ring and was rewarded with one as well.

Due to budget cuts, WWE released Black in June. In a video shared on his Instagram earlier today, he teased his new identity. When WWE releases a main roster star, they usually have a 90-day non-compete agreement.

According to PWInsider, Black was able to appear in AEW so soon owing to a clerical error. WWE failed to amend Black's contract from the customary 30-day non-compete clause that NXT performers typically had when they were promoted to the main roster a few years ago.

Black was able to make his surprise appearance tonight as AEW returned to the road in Miami, Florida, because the alteration was never made.