Aleister Black, born Tom Büdgen on May 19, 1985, in Alkmaar, Netherlands, has carved out a distinct niche in professional wrestling. Black’s rise from the European independent circuit to multinational wrestling promotions such as WWE and AEW illustrates his drive and versatility.
Early Life and Martial Arts Foundation
Growing up in a humble household in the Netherlands, Black experienced financial difficulties. Aleister Black’s father worked extensively, frequently juggling numerous jobs, to support the family. These early obstacles established in Black a strong work ethic and an appreciation for tenacity. Sportskeeda
Black began martial arts training when Aleister Black was nine years old, including kickboxing and the Indonesian style of pencak silat. These disciplines not only improved his physical ability but also shaped his wrestling style, which is distinguished by accurate attacks and flowing motions. His hallmark maneuver, the “Black Mass” spinning heel kick, showcases
Aleister Black’s martial arts prowess.
Rise in the European wrestling scene.
Under the ring moniker “Tommy End,” Black made tremendous progress in the European wrestling circuit. He wrestled for promotions including Westside Xtreme Wrestling (wXw), Progress Wrestling, and Insane Championship Wrestling (ICW). His accomplishments include Sportskeeda
wXw Unified World Wrestling Championship.
Progress Tag Team Championship (With Michael Dante)
ICW Tag Team Championship (with Michael Dante): Sportskeeda
These accomplishments cemented his reputation as a formidable contender, capturing the attention of foreign promotions.
Transition to WWE and NXT Stardom
Black signed with WWE in 2016, and he debuted as Aleister Black on NXT in 2017. His first match at NXT TakeOver: Orlando saw him defeat Andrade “Cien” Almas, establishing his presence right away.
During Black’s time on NXT, he made headlines for wrestling.
Winning the NXT Championship at TakeOver: New Orleans in 2018.
Having noteworthy feuds with Velveteen Dream and Tommaso Ciampa
In 2017, he won the NXT Male Competitor of the Year and Breakout Star of the Year awards.
His mystique, paired with his in-ring abilities, made him a prominent performer in NXT.
Main Roster Challenges and Departures
Black joined WWE’s main roster, competing on Raw and SmackDown. He created a successful tag team with Ricochet and achieved important victories. However, uneven plots and limited screen time slowed his progress. Source: Wikipedia.
Many fans were stunned when Black was released from WWE in June 2021, given his talent and popularity.
Reinvention in All Elite Wrestling (AEW)
Shortly after his WWE departure, Black debuted in AEW under the moniker “Malakai Black.” His arrival was marked by a dramatic entrance and immediate impact, attacking prominent figures like Cody Rhodes.
In AEW, Black founded the “House of Black,” a faction known by its gloomy, occult undertones. Alongside members Brody King and Buddy Matthews, the group enjoyed success, including Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Winning the AEW World Trio Championship at Revolution in March 2023.
Engaging in high-profile feuds with teams like Death Triangle and The Elite. Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Black’s time at AEW gave him creative freedom, which aligned with his artistic vision and wrestling philosophy.
As of April 2024, Aleister Black, also known as Malakai Black in AEW and born Tom Büdgen, has an estimated net worth of $2 million. His principal source of income is his professional wrestling career, where he earned a reputed $500,000 per year while with All Elite Wrestling (AEW).
Aside from wrestling, Black has diversified his income through several ventures:
Endorsements: He has signed deals with AEW Shop, Hayabusa Fightwear, Jazwares, and other companies. Entrepreneurship: Black and his wife, WWE Superstar Zelina Vega, co-own The Dark Arts Gym, a Florida-based wrestling training institution. Sportskeeda
Black has a strong internet presence, which includes a Linktree account that promotes items, training content, and collaborations with other artists and creators
SOCIAL ACCOUNTS.
As of April 2025, Aleister Black, also known as Malakai Black in AEW, has an active presence on various social media sites, giving followers a glimpse into his professional activities and personal hobbies.
📸 Instagram: @malakaiblxxk
Malakai Black’s official Instagram page has over 820,000 followers. He frequently shares items reflecting his own aesthetic and professional journey. Recent entries have included comments about his wrestling style, combining Muay Thai with professional wrestling, and personal reflections.
Follow @malakaiblxck on X (previously Twitter).
On X, Malakai Black interacts with fans, gives insights into his wrestling philosophy, and addresses career-related rumors and news. His posts frequently provide a greater knowledge of his personality and personal beliefs.
Linktree: linktr.ee/malakaiblack.
Malakai Black uses Linktree to integrate numerous elements of his professional life, such as goods, training content, and collaborations. This website acts as a center for followers to discover his various projects and interests.
Return to WWE.
Following weeks of confusing vignettes, Black made a surprising return to WWE’s SmackDown in April 2025, attacking The Miz. Reverting to his Aleister Black image, his return sparked excitement among fans wanting to see him restore his WWE position.
Personal Life and Interests
Beyond the ring, Black is recognized for his intense fascination with the occult, which inspires both his wrestling character and personal aesthetics. His body is covered in exquisite tattoos, each with unique significance.
In 2018, he married fellow WWE wrestler Thea Trinidad, also known as Zelina Vega. The couple lives in Tampa, Florida, and has a common passion for alternative culture and the arts.
Legacy Aleister Black’s journey through various wrestling promotions showcases his adaptability and commitment to his craft. His unique blend of martial arts and wrestling, combined with his dark, enigmatic persona, has left a lasting impression on the wrestling world.
Conclusion
Aleister Black’s wrestling career exemplifies his resilience, adaptability, and artistic vision. From humble origins in the Netherlands to international acclaim, he has always pushed the limits of his profession. Whether he captivates viewers with his in-ring prowess or intrigues them with his enigmatic attitude, Black remains a compelling presence in pro wrestling.