Ex-WWE Star Malakai Black Announces Return to Original Ring Name
Former WWE star Malakai Black has announced that he will once again be known by his original ring name.
Black made the announcement during his post-match promo at PROGRESS Wrestling. This was following his loss to Cara Noir for the PROGRESS Men’s World Championship. After nearly a decade, Black returned to the promotion where he first established himself under the Tommy End name.
The announcement marks another significant change for Black following his departure from WWE earlier this year. He was released by WWE after returning to the company as Aleister Black in 2025, having previously competed for All Elite Wrestling.
Before returning to WWE for a second run, Black spent several years in AEW under the Malakai Black name. His AEW contract expired in February 2025, ending a run. During his time he was the leader of the House of Black and held the AEW World Trios Championship.
During his promo, the former NXT Champion reflected on his history with PROGRESS and the significance of performing at the Electric Ballroom in London. Black recalled being the first wrestler to make his debut at the venue when PROGRESS moved there 10 years ago.
“10 years ago, when we moved to the Electric Ballroom, I was the first ever to make my debut inside of the Electric Ballroom,” he said.
Black then addressed the fans who had supported him throughout his career. He said PROGRESS had remained special to him because everyone was welcome, adding that the promotion was the place closest to home while he was growing up in Amsterdam.
Malakai Black Announces Return To Original Ring Name Tommy End
Black also reflected on his recent PROGRESS World Championship reign, revealing that he had dreamed about returning to the promotion and holding its top title for almost a decade.
“For almost a decade, I dreamed about coming back and holding that title, and even if it was just for one month, it was worth it,” he said.
Black explained that his relationship with PROGRESS dates back to the beginning of his career with the company. He also revealed that Damo (formerly known as Killian Dane) was the first person to contact him after his WWE release and invite him back.
“And I know, like, a lot of wrestlers like to come out here and say that, but I’ve been PROGRESS from the start,” Black said. “That’s why when I got released, Damo was the first one on the phone, and it was a no-brainer. He said, ‘Come back,’ I said, ‘Let’s do it.’”
The crowd then began chanting “Tommy! Tommy! Tommy End!” in support of the former PROGRESS World Champion.
Black responded by acknowledging the fans’ preference.
“Well, you clearly made your preference ready,” he said. “So it’s not Malakai Black, it’s Tommy End.”
Black competed for the promotion as Tommy End before establishing himself on the global wrestling scene. He captured the PROGRESS Tag Team Championship with Michael Dante and also won the Super Strong Style 16 Tournament.
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