With Aleister Black’s AEW contract now expired, all signs point to an inevitable WWE return for the Dutch striker. The question isn’t if he’ll return, but when – and more importantly, where he fits in today’s WWE landscape.

Black’s previous WWE run, while showing flashes of brilliance, never quite reached the heights many expected. However, the company’s creative direction under Triple H has demonstrated a stronger understanding of how to utilize talent with unique personas and strong in-ring abilities – qualities Black possesses in spades.

The current WWE roster offers intriguing possibilities for Black’s return. His hard-hitting style could create compelling matchups with performers like Damian Priest, GUNTHER and Drew McIntyre. His history with Andrade, Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa from their NXT days could easily be revisited on a grander stage. He’s The possibility of a reunion – or confrontation – with his wife Zelina Vega adds another layer of storytelling potential.

Black’s supernatural-tinged character would fit seamlessly into WWE’s current presentation of metaphysical storylines, as seen with performers like Bray Wyatt and Karrion Kross. His time in AEW as Malakai Black has only refined this aspect of his character, adding depth that WWE could build upon.

With WrestleMania season approaching, the timing couldn’t be better for Black’s return. Whether he emerges as a surprise Royal Rumble entrant or materializes in the aftermath of WWE’s biggest event, one thing is certain: Aleister Black’s return will immediately impact WWE’s main event scene, picking up where he left off – but this time with the creative freedom to truly realize his potential.