Malik Blade returns to in-ring action at NXT live event after a year out injured

Image Courtesy: WWE

Malik Blade wrestled his first match in over a year on Friday night, returning from a significant knee injury.

Blade competed at the NXT live event in Bartow, Florida, where he lost a singles match against Cyril Coquerelle, formerly known as Aigle Blanc.

It marked Blade’s first appearance since an episode of NXT Level Up taped on October 15, 2024. He has been sidelined since November 2024 after suffering a torn ACL.

Following the match, Blade commented on his return on social media, writing, “We are so back !”

Blade signed with WWE in 2021. For the majority of his tenure, he was part of a tag team with Edris Enofé. The pair were regulars on NXT programming before Blade transitioned to a singles run in mid-2024.

Enofé announced his departure from WWE in September 2025.

About Neal Flanagan 1627 Articles
Based in Northern Ireland, Neal Flanagan is a former newspaper journalist and copy editor. In addition to reporting for POST Wrestling, he co-hosts The Wellness Policy and Book Club podcasts.