John “Bradshaw” Layfield (JBL) has advised wrestlers who are released to exit quietly, responding to Malakai Black’s recent criticism of WWE’s management during his second stint with the company. Malakai Black, formerly Aleister Black in WWE, was let go in April amid WWE’s post-WrestleMania 42 layoffs, one year after returning from AEW. In a YouTube interview on XELVX AND CHARLIE GIRL with his wife Xelina and Charlie Girl (formerly Zelina Vega and Dakota Kai in WWE), Black expressed how his release affected him more deeply than expected because of promises made when he re-signed.
Black admitted, “It sucks, of course it sucks,” emphasizing that it hurt even more considering the assurances he received and the unfulfilling year he experienced despite participating in main events. On the September 25 episode of Something To Wrestle with Conrad Thompson, JBL addressed Black’s remarks by sharing advice he once got from Kerry Von Erich, who wished he could return as a carpenter to rebuild bridges he had destroyed.
JBL stated, “Many wrestlers these days are burning bridges. I’m not sure if Aleister is doing that, but it’s definitely not a way to maintain good relationships.” He recounted his father’s simple rule for leaving a job: “When it’s time to go, just take your hat, shake hands, and walk out.” JBL emphasized the importance of preserving connections in wrestling, noting that opportunities are limited in sports entertainment.
“There are very few places to make it big in this business,” JBL remarked. “Alienating key figures like Tony Khan or WWE executives Triple H and Nick Khan isn’t wise.” He cautioned against conducting angry interviews, pointing out that such actions often backfire and make a person seem bitter. While acknowledging that frustration can be understandable, he noted that public expressions of bitterness tend to be perceived negatively and are frequently taken out of context for clickbait.
JBL’s critique targeted Black’s manner of departure, not his talent. Earlier in May, on the same podcast, JBL acknowledged Black’s potential as a main-event star, though he suggested a character change was needed to reclaim that status. Regarding wrestling’s evolving economic landscape, JBL explained that unlike previous decades, wrestlers leaving WWE today are unlikely to earn comparable pay elsewhere. Markets in Mexico, Europe, and Japan do not offer the same financial opportunities.
“In the past, you could burn bridges and join another territory that had to take you back. But that’s no longer the case,” JBL said. Meanwhile, Black has returned to the independent circuit, recently winning the PROGRESS World Championship from Cara Noir in Manchester on September 6. Eric Bischoff also responded to Black’s interview on 83 Weeks, expressing skepticism about the promises Black described and urging him to take responsibility for his own situation.
Fan Take: This exchange highlights the delicate balance wrestlers must maintain between honesty and professionalism when navigating career setbacks. For wrestling fans, it underscores how the evolving industry dynamics impact performers’ careers and emphasizes the lasting importance of reputation in a competitive entertainment landscape.
Source: wrestlingnews.co
