A Potential Return to the Cage: Matt Riddle Eyes MMA Comeback
Former UFC fighter and current professional wrestling star Matt Riddle has hinted at a potential return to mixed martial arts in 2024. At 37, Riddle is considering stepping back into the competitive fighting scene after a successful stint in the world of sports entertainment.
Exploring Options Across Promotions
Riddle's conversations with various combat sports organizations have sparked interest, though he remains tight-lipped about the specifics. "There's been a lot of talk. I've been talking to a couple of promotions," Riddle disclosed to MMA Junkie. He added that while nothing is official yet, the likelihood of his return to either the ring or cage in 2024 is high.
The Wrestling Observer Newsletter has reported that Riddle could be entertaining offers from the realm of bare-knuckle fighting as well as the Professional Fighters League (PFL), indicating a diverse range of opportunities for the seasoned athlete.
Reflecting on Past Achievements and Controversies
Riddle's last foray into MMA was in February 2014 when he faced Michael Kuiper under the Titan FC banner. Prior to this, he left the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) on a four-win streak, including a notable victory over Che Mills. However, two of those wins were later overturned due to failed drug tests for marijuana, leading to a turbulent exit from the promotion.
Dana White, the president of the UFC, did not mince words when Riddle departed, offering criticism that inadvertently raised Riddle's profile. Reflecting on this, Riddle expressed gratitude, saying, "I have to thank Dana because if he were to just fire me and not say anything, nobody probably would've known about me." The controversy surrounding his UFC exit helped shape his 'bro' persona, which resonated with fans who could relate to his experience.
Despite the rocky end to his UFC tenure, Riddle harbors no ill will. "I never say never," he stated, open to reconciling if the right opportunity presents itself. His focus on the positive is evident as he reminisces about his UFC days, "I feel like I left the UFC on a four-fight win streak, then won another fight in Titan FC. I just kind of left and went to pro wrestling."
Transition to Professional Wrestling
After his departure from MMA, Riddle quickly adapted to the professional wrestling circuit, beginning his training in 2014 and making his debut the following year. He made an impact on various independent promotions, capturing several titles along the way.
In 2018, Riddle's career took a significant turn as he joined WWE NXT, where he achieved success by winning the NXT Tag Team Championship with Pete Dunne. His prowess in the ring led him to the main roster, where he secured the United States Championship in February 2021. Additionally, Riddle formed a popular tag team with Randy Orton called "RK-Bro," claiming the Raw Tag Team Championship twice.
Maintaining Combat Readiness
Even amidst his professional wrestling accomplishments, Riddle has kept his martial arts skills sharp, practicing multiple times a week. His dedication to the craft is underscored by his status as a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, a rank that requires years of disciplined training and mastery.
Riddle's presence at high-profile combat sports events, such as the Jake Paul vs. Andre August boxing match in Orlando, further cements his continued interest in the fight game. It's clear that the competitive fire still burns within him as he contemplates his future.
"Pro wrestling is awesome, but I still want to get beat up. I want to have my exit. We'll see. Maybe somebody beats me up. Maybe I keep winning. Who knows?" Riddle mused about his potential return to combat sports.
Free Agency and Future Prospects
As a free agent, Riddle has the freedom to navigate his career path without contractual constraints. This autonomy allows him to explore opportunities across both MMA and professional wrestling, ensuring that any decision he makes regarding his return to fighting will be on his terms.
The combat sports community will undoubtedly follow Matt Riddle's journey closely, whether he chooses to re-enter the cage or continue to entertain in the squared circle. With his athletic prowess and charismatic personality, Riddle's next chapter promises to be as compelling as his last.