The wrestling world took notice when Aleister Black made his shocking WWE return on the post-WrestleMania 41 SmackDown, but it’s what’s happening behind the scenes that has everyone talking. According to industry insiders, the Dutch Destroyer has caught the attention of WWE’s creative team in a major way, with plans already in motion to elevate him to new heights on the blue brand.
The Return That Changed Everything
Black’s WWE comeback wasn’t just another surprise return – it was a statement. After weeks of mysterious vignettes building anticipation, the former NXT Champion struck like lightning, taking out The Miz and instantly reminding fans why he’s one of the most unique performers in the industry. The timing couldn’t have been better, as his AEW contract had expired in March, paving the way for his WWE homecoming.
Creative Team Buzzing About Black’s Potential
PWInsider Elite reports that backstage conversations have been overwhelmingly positive regarding Black’s early performance since returning. Sources within WWE’s creative circles are drawing comparisons to previous success stories, specifically noting how they correctly predicted Damian Priest’s eventual rise to main event status years before it happened.
The same creative minds are now setting their sights on Black, with discussions centering around raising his profile significantly on SmackDown. This isn’t just wishful thinking – it’s active planning based on concrete results the company has already seen.
Strategic Positioning Already Underway
WWE hasn’t wasted time integrating Black into SmackDown’s upper tier. Recent weeks have seen him engaging with established stars across the brand’s landscape, including interactions with Ron Killings, LA Knight, and ironically, Damian Priest himself. These aren’t random backstage moments – they’re calculated moves designed to position Black among the brand’s elite performers.
The company’s approach mirrors classic WWE booking philosophy: surround a rising star with established names to elevate their status through association. It’s a tried-and-true method that’s working exactly as intended.
Numbers Don’t Lie: In-Ring Success and Merchandise Appeal
Black’s push isn’t just based on creative optimism – the results speak for themselves. Since returning, he’s maintained an impressive singles match record, remaining undefeated in one-on-one competition. His only losses have come in multi-man scenarios where he wasn’t the one taking the pin, protecting his mystique while still allowing for compelling television.
Beyond ring performance, Black’s merchandise sales have reportedly exceeded expectations, proving his fanbase remained loyal during his time away. In WWE’s current landscape, where commercial viability often determines creative direction, strong merch numbers provide powerful ammunition for continued pushes.
What This Means for SmackDown’s Landscape
Black’s elevation could shake up SmackDown’s established hierarchy in fascinating ways. His unique character work and in-ring psychology offer something different from the typical WWE main event scene, potentially providing fresh matchups and storyline opportunities that the brand desperately needs.
The fact that WWE moved quickly to secure his services after his AEW departure suggests they learned from past mistakes, recognizing talent that might have been underutilized during his previous run. This time feels different – more intentional, more strategic.
With creative firmly behind him and the numbers supporting their confidence, Aleister Black appears poised for the kind of sustained push that could redefine his WWE legacy. The question now isn’t whether he’ll rise up the card, but how quickly WWE will be willing to pull the trigger on making him a genuine main event player once again.
