The wrestling world got a fascinating glimpse behind the curtain when former WWE talent Elayna Black revealed her surprising connection to AEW during a candid interview on the Ariel Helwani Show. Her story of manifestation, missed opportunities, and future aspirations paints a picture that many independent wrestlers can relate to.
The AEW Connection That Almost Was
Before Black ever stepped foot in a WWE facility, she was already making waves on AEW programming. The talented performer spent several weeks working matches for AEW Dark, building relationships and honing her craft on national television.
During late 2020, Black was gaining serious momentum on the independent scene. Like many wrestlers of her generation, she saw AEW as the perfect landing spot for her unique style and creative vision.
I was doing AEW actually for a few weeks or a month or two before my WWE trial. I thought I was going to end up at AEW. Yeah, dark matches, and I loved it there. I thought I was gonna end up there first.”
Manifestation and Dream Boards
Perhaps the most endearing part of Black’s journey involves her belief in manifestation. She took her AEW aspirations so seriously that she created her own “Elayna Black is All Elite” graphic and placed it strategically above her bed.
This daily reminder served as motivation and visualization of her goals. It’s a practice that shows the dedication and mental approach many wrestlers use to achieve their dreams.
“I’m very big on manifestation, and I made a fake Elayna Black is All Elite logo and I put it above my bed, so when I went to bed I’d manifest it before sleeping.”
When WWE Came Calling First
Timing proved crucial in Black’s career trajectory. While she was actively working with AEW and dreaming of joining their roster, WWE extended a tryout opportunity during the same period.
The decision ultimately came down to who made the first concrete offer. WWE moved faster, presenting Black with an opportunity she couldn’t refuse.
“But then I got the WWE tryout the same month that I was doing AEW. WWE made me an offer before AEW, so I took it. Either way, I knew I wanted to be in a big wrestling company.”
Creative Freedom Appeals to Black
Now that her WWE chapter has closed, Black is looking toward the future with renewed interest in AEW. Her reasoning goes beyond simple employment – it’s about artistic expression and creative control.
Black specifically cited AEW’s reputation for allowing wrestlers to develop their own storylines and characters. This creative freedom represents everything she values as a performer.
“I love as much creative freedom as they do. I’m so much about storylines and characters, and I feel like they are creatively free in that way, so it’s definitely something I’d be open to.”
The Return Question Everyone Wants Answered
When directly asked about returning to AEW, Black didn’t hesitate with her response. She confirmed her desire to return to full-time wrestling and expressed genuine enthusiasm about rejoining the company where she felt at home.
Her existing relationships within AEW could prove valuable. Black mentioned having “a lot of friends there” and regularly watching their programming, suggesting she’s stayed connected to the company’s evolution.
“Yes, I want to be full-time again. Yes, I would like to go to AEW. I would definitely be open to going to AEW. I loved my time there, I have a lot of friends there, I watch a lot of shows.”
What’s Next for the Former WWE Star?
Black confirmed that her 30-day non-compete clause recently expired, making her officially available for bookings. However, she hasn’t initiated any formal discussions with AEW management yet.
This timing could work in her favor, as AEW continues expanding their women’s division and seeking fresh talent. Black’s previous experience with the company, combined with her WWE development, makes her an intriguing prospect.
With Black recently laying down a challenge to a current AEW star and her obvious desire to return, will Tony Khan and AEW make the call that finally brings her manifestation board to life?
