WWE fans were surprised to learn that Aleister Black will not compete in the Royal Rumble event. Despite traveling to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, WWE officials opted to withdraw him from the highly anticipated match.
A Strategic Decision for Aleister Black’s Return
According to sources from PWInsider, WWE aims to reintroduce Black to its programming in a more impactful manner. The decision was made to prevent him from being overshadowed in the crowded 30-man Royal Rumble environment.
Recent Activity and Injury Update
Aleister Black last appeared on television during a match against Damian Priest on January 2, 2026. This match, an Ambulance Match, saw Black sustain a minor broken tailbone. Fortunately, this injury was not expected to change his planned absence from WWE programming.
- Date of Last Match: January 2, 2026
- Match Type: Ambulance Match
- Opponent: Damian Priest
- Current Rival: Damian Priest
- Injury: Minor broken tailbone
Character Development and Future Plans
Black is in the midst of a storyline feud with Priest, during which Zelina Vega represents her husband. Earlier this month, Black revealed on The Babyfaces Podcast that he is working on subtle adjustments to his character. He aims to maintain Vega’s core personality while adapting to their new dark alliance.
With WWE’s intention for a more significant storyline, fans can expect Black’s eventual return to the ring to hold greater weight within the ongoing feud against Damian Priest.
