Aleister Black debuts new look in post-WWE release video
The former Aleister Black has a new look as he enters free agency.
Black (Tom Budgen), along with the rest of WWE’s post-WrestleMania 42 releases, became a free agent near the end of July. What’s next for him in pro wrestling is unclear, but Black released a video today that ends with him debuting a new look with a fully shaved head. Much of the video focuses on a contemplative-looking Black going through daily life. He then closes the video seemingly rejuvenated and training in martial arts.
“I am the death of me,” Black wrote in the caption.
April’s release marked the end of Black’s second stint with WWE. He wrestled for AEW under the name Malakai Black between those WWE runs. Whether he’d be welcomed back into AEW is a big question, with MJF saying that — while he doesn’t really know Black personally — he considers Black to be a “mark” who used AEW as a stepping stone. There were rumors that Black was reluctant to lose matches during his time with AEW, though Black has said those rumors are untrue.
Zelina Vega’s post-WWE name —
Black’s wife Zelina Vega (Thea Trinidad) was released at the same time as her husband. She is now using “Xelina” as her name and appeared at WrestleCon’s convention in Minneapolis during SummerSlam weekend.
On Instagram, Black’s handle has been changed to his real name with his old indie name “Tommy End” listed in his profile.
Joseph Currier is the lead editor of F4WOnline.com, directing daily news coverage and writing articles on professional wrestling. He is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts, obtaining a journalism degree in 2016. Joseph joined F4W during his time at UMass and has now been writing about the industry for nearly a decade.
In addition to his work with F4W, Joseph has previously contributed to Sports Illustrated's wrestling coverage. He lives in Massachusetts and is a diehard fan of the Boston sports teams and Liverpool Football Club.