Aleister Black Opens Up on His Future Goals – Aleister Black officially returned to WWE during the April 25 edition of SmackDown, making his first appearance on WWE television since his 2021 release. Black, who spent the last several years with AEW between 2021 and 2025, had not appeared on AEW programming since November 2024.
Ahead of his WWE return, Josiah Williams of Wrestle & Flow released a mini-documentary offering fans a deeper look into Black’s journey over the past few years and his mindset today. In the video, Black spoke candidly about his physical condition, future aspirations, and the emotional struggles he has faced.
“I’m 39. I hope I have another five to eight years left in me. Physically, I feel great. I think this is the best I’ve ever looked. Technology, nutrition, sports science — all of it has evolved. Athletes are competing at higher levels later into their careers now, and I definitely feel like I’m part of that. But I have no illusions. Most of my career is behind me, absolutely. And that’s not sad — that’s a good thing. To have survived this long and stayed relevant, that’s something I’m proud of. The fanbase is still there, still supporting me through every setback. It’s heartwarming and something I lost sight of at times. When you’re used to darkness, it’s easy to fall back into it. But learning to control that feeling has been life-changing. Now, at 39, knowing I have five to eight years left, I’m at peace with it,” Black said.
On next week’s episode of SmackDown, Black will face The Miz in his first WWE match since his return.
Meanwhile, Black’s wife, Zelina Vega, captured the WWE Women’s United States Championship during the same episode of SmackDown. As seen below, The couple shared a heartfelt moment backstage at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas, as they celebrated their individual successes.
Aleister Black Opens Up on His Future Goals
