AEW News & Rumor Roundup: Top star's deal ending soon amid WWE return links, The real brains behind The Death Riders, Renee Paquette praise
Welcome to the AEW News & Rumor Roundup for November 16, 2024. Today, we'll take a look at some fascinating details regarding All Elite Wrestling star Malakai Black's contract details as well as the man behind Jon Moxley and his faction's ongoing storyline.
In addition, we will learn about the dominant faction that witnessed Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson live from the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, and more.
#4. Jim Ross seemingly confirms that AEW star Malakai Black's contract is close to expiration
Earlier this month, Malakai Black was defeated by Adam Cole in a singles match on Dynamite. Following that, he embraced his opponent. This began rumors that the star was leaving the company. However, Black confirmed that the speculations were false. On this week's Dynamite, The House of Black beat FTR and qualified for the four-way tag team match for the AEW World Tag Team Championship at Full Gear.
Interestingly, this result surprised Jim Ross. He revealed that the 39-year-old's contract will indeed expire soon. Additionally, he showered the former NXT Champion with praise.
"I was shocked, to be honest with you, that FTR lost [on Dynamite]. I was just assuming because of the rumored situation of Mr. Black leaving. I think his contract is expiring…he’s a hell of a hand. I love the guy. He’s a nice guy, smart guy. He’d be good in the booker’s room," [H/T: Ringside News]
#3. The Hurt Syndicate was spotted at Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul
Boxing has a massive fan following across the globe. These fanbases include top celebrities and athletes. Many wrestlers from wrestling promotions such as WWE, AEW, and more are also big-time boxing fans.
Members of The Hurt Syndicate, MVP, Shelton Benjamin, and Bobby Lashley were spotted at the recent Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul event at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Additionally, Porter posted a photo of the trio from the venue, with the faction's new theme song.
#2. The mastermind behind The Death Riders storyline is none other than Jon Moxley himself
The Death Riders is undoubtedly the most dangerous stable in AEW today. Its leader is Jon Moxley, and its members include Wheeler Yuta, Claudio Castagnoli, Marina Shafir, and PAC. Moxley is the reigning World Champion while Yuta, Castagnoli, and PAC are the current World Trios Champions.
According to a recent report from Wrestling Observer Newsletter, the mastermind behind this storyline is the former Dean Ambrose himself. Additionally, Tony Khan is overseeing it.
"The current AEW/Death Riders storyline is Jon Moxley’s deal as far as the angle goes, and Tony Khan was agreeable to do it. Tony Khan is still overseeing it, like everything on the television, but a lot of the ideas and verbiage is coming from Moxley," stated WON.
#1. Renee Paquette was praised by TNA World Champion Nic Nemeth
TNA World Champion Nic Nemeth (fka Dolph Ziggler) recently appeared on Busted Open Radio and sang praise of AEW interviewer Renee Paquette. Additionally, he called the 39-year-old the MVP of the Jacksonville-based promotion.
"Seriously, that is an unsung hero, MVP of AEW because she's in five, six, seven backstages every night," said the 44-year-old. [H/T Wrestling Inc.]
Nemeth and Paquette were both once signed to WWE. However, the two are still making a name for themselves following their exits from the Stamford-based promotion.