Earlier this week there were rumors of some AEW stars requesting their release from the company.

One particular individual heavily rumored to be among those stars was Malakai Black. His name was confirmed by Raj Giri of WrestlingInc.com saying that his sources indicated that it was Black after “concerns about his mental health due to personal life and demoralization due to the booking and handling of his character.”

Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer also noted that one who asked for his release has a long time left on his current AEW deal and Black fits that category as well. Black was mentioned by Tony Khan a few weeks ago as someone who is tied up to AEW for years to come.

In the end, AEW management turned down Black’s request for release despite Tony Khan previously stating that anyone who wants to leave will be granted their wish.