All Elite Wrestling star Malakai Black is setting the record straight about his health and status with the company. Following a hard-fought loss to Adam Cole on Wednesday's AEW Dynamite, Cole extended a his hand for handshake. Black took a moment, and instead embraced his longtime rival with a big hug.
Cole took a microphone and declared that Black is one of the best wrestlers he's ever faced. The show of respect prompted a standing ovation from the live crowd. Fans immediately took to social media and speculated this signified Black is either taking another extended absense, or leaving the company entirely.
Malakai Black's Statement
On Thursday morning, Black posted a video on Instagram to provide his side of the story. He expresses frustration about the rumors concerning his health and career, and urges fans to be respectful of his situation.
I’m not injured nor am I retiring or am I leaving,” Black said. “I feel this happens every match I have, and I don’t understand how many times you’re going to say these things and then them not happening and people are still going to fall for that. I haven’t been injured in more than three years... I’m fine, I’ve been fine for the longest time. I would really appreciate it if that stuff stops, man.
If I’m going to retire, you’re going to hear it from me and not after Adam just cuts a promo just as a thank you for the match. Because that’s all it was. So, thank you.”
- Malakai Black
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Malakai Black has kept an active schedule this year, and has wrestled 23 matches for AEW, most of which have been tag matches with his partners in the House of Black.
