Aleister Black is finally clearing up the rumors about why he didnt appear in the Royal Rumble and according to him, the real reason had nothing to do with Saudi Arabia or his tattoos. While speaking to The Stunner on March 5, 2026, Black addressed speculation that he had traveled to Saudi Arabia for the event but was removed because his tattoos were considered too controversial. Black quickly shut that idea down. Instead, Black explained that the plan involved a storyline with Randy Orton, but he felt launching that feud inside the chaos of the Royal Rumble wouldnt have done the angle justice. Black believes the tattoo rumor likely resurfaced because of a real conversation that happened years ago when WWE first started running shows in Saudi Arabia. He explained that at the time, there were questions about how his heavily tattooed appearance might be received in that environment, and he even discussed the issue with Vince McMahon. However, Black says that concern hasnt been an issue for a long time something he pointed to by referencing his recent WWE television appearance. According to Black, the misunderstanding likely came from fans assuming the old issue was still relevant today. Bottom line: Black says he was originally scheduled for the Royal Rumble but the creative team chose to hold off so his storyline with Randy Orton could start in a more meaningful way. Do you think WWE should have started the Aleister Black vs Randy Orton story inside the Royal Rumble, or was saving it the right move? Let us know your thoughts. Please credit Ringside News if you use the above transcript in your publication. G Add as a preferred source on Google
