The former NXT Champion’s unexpected return to WWE has been one of the industry’s most talked-about moves in recent months. Now, Malakai Black has opened up about what it’s like stepping back into the company under Triple H’s creative direction, describing an environment dramatically different from the one he left behind.
A Changed Wrestler in a Transformed WWE
During a revealing conversation on The Battleground Podcast, Black identified the most significant change in his WWE return wasn’t the company itself — but his own personal evolution. When asked what stood out most about this second chapter, his answer was refreshingly introspective.
“Me. I felt different. And obviously, you know, the players are no longer the same players that were there, you know, handling the business when I was there. Well, I mean, they were there, but they weren’t handling it the way they’re handling it now. And the atmosphere backstage is so good, man.”
That atmosphere represents a stark contrast to the environment Black experienced during his previous WWE tenure, which ended abruptly in 2021 during a wave of talent releases that shocked the wrestling world.
Navigating Unexpected Emotions
For many performers, returning to a company that once released them would create complicated feelings. Black acknowledged this emotional complexity when describing his first moments back in the iconic Gorilla Position.
“When I first stepped in, obviously, you know, there’s a lot of old emotions that kind of come up for a little bit because it’s something that you unwillingly left behind. And you know, you’re very, very lucky that you’re one of the few people that gets another shot at something.”
What makes Black’s story particularly compelling is how quickly those initial nerves transformed into something that felt surprisingly natural. Despite years away from WWE, including his time in AEW as a founding member of the House of Black, the transition back felt almost seamless.
The New Leadership Difference
Industry insiders have noted the significant cultural shift within WWE since Paul “Triple H” Levesque assumed creative control. Black’s comments seem to validate those reports, as he described a radically improved backstage environment.
“It was a very thoughtful day. But in a strange way, it felt like I never left, because everything was still the same in the most positive sense of the word. And then having the people that have always rallied behind me being in charge of everything and giving me the directions that I need—and taking the time to have the conversations with me leading up to all of this—felt like anything short of having the red carpet rolled out for me, you know what I mean? And it was a great feeling. It was a great day.”
Finding His Center Before the Curtain Call
Every performer has their own ritual before stepping through the curtain. For Black, that moment of return required a brief period of self-reflection — a chance to check in with himself before re-entering the WWE universe.
“I was very nervous. But then I took a second. I put my headphones on and I just kind of stood in it, you know? I was kind of like, ‘Okay, this is about to happen. How do you feel?’ And at that moment, there was nothing that I’d rather do than be right there. It was really good.”
This meditative approach speaks volumes about Black’s mental preparation and the importance he places on being present in career-defining moments.
A Second Chapter With Unlimited Potential
What makes Black’s return particularly intriguing is how it coincides with WWE’s creative renaissance under Triple H. Many talents who struggled under previous regimes have found their footing in this new era, and Black’s unique character and in-ring style seem perfectly positioned to thrive.
The Dutch striker’s journey from NXT Champion to main roster talent, through his surprise release and AEW run, has now come full circle in what appears to be the most supportive version of WWE he’s experienced. With fresh matchups against performers like Gunther, Damian Priest, and Cody Rhodes on the horizon, could this second WWE chapter finally deliver the main event run many fans believe Black has always deserved? The wrestling world will be watching closely.
