Matt Riddle Eyes a Return to MMA in 2024
Former UFC fighter and professional wrestler Matt Riddle has hinted at a potential return to mixed martial arts (MMA) as early as 2024. At 37 years of age, Riddle remains a prominent figure in combat sports, having carved out successful careers in both the octagon and the wrestling ring.
Riddle's discussions about a comeback have been with various organizations, though he has kept specifics under wraps. The Wrestling Observer Newsletter has reported that there could be interest from both bare-knuckle fighting promotions and the Professional Fighters League (PFL), indicating a wide array of opportunities for the athlete.
A Look Back at Riddle's MMA Career
Riddle's last appearance in an MMA fight took place in February 2014 at a Titan FC event, where he faced off against Michael Kuiper. Prior to this, he had an impressive run in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), leaving the promotion on a four-fight winning streak after a victory over Che Mills in 2013. However, it's worth noting that two of those wins were later overturned due to failed drug tests for marijuana, which at the time was a banned substance according to UFC’s anti-doping policy.
The end of Riddle's UFC tenure was marked by controversy, as UFC President Dana White publicly criticized him following his release. Despite this, Riddle has expressed gratitude towards White, acknowledging that the attention helped raise his profile and contributed to the development of his 'bro' persona, which has become a trademark of his character in the wrestling world.
Transition to Professional Wrestling
After his departure from MMA, Riddle wasted no time in pivoting to professional wrestling. He began his training in 2014 and made his debut in 2015. His natural charisma and athletic prowess quickly earned him recognition across various independent circuits, where he claimed several championships.
In 2018, Riddle's career took a significant turn when he signed with WWE NXT, capturing the NXT Tag Team Championship alongside Pete Dunne. His momentum didn't stop there; he ascended to the main roster and secured the United States Championship in February 2021. Alongside Randy Orton, Riddle formed the popular tag team "RK-Bro," becoming a two-time Raw Tag Team Champion.
Despite his success in the squared circle, Riddle has maintained his combat skills, practicing martial arts multiple times a week. His dedication is evident as he holds a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, showcasing his versatile skill set and commitment to staying combat-ready.
Riddle's Current Status and Future Prospects
Currently a free agent, Riddle's presence at high-profile events like the Jake Paul vs. Andre August boxing match in Orlando keeps him in the public eye and fuels speculation about his next move. His openness to returning to the cage reflects a fighter who is not yet ready to hang up his gloves.
In conversations with MMA Junkie, Riddle conveyed his eagerness to step back into competitive fighting, stating, "There's been a lot of talk. I've been talking to a couple of promotions." He continued, "I don't want to get into it until it's official, but I think in 2024 there's a very big possibility that I get back in the ring or cage pretty soon."
Riddle also touched upon his past with the UFC and his relationship with Dana White, 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." He reflected on how the fallout helped shape his wrestling character and connect with fans on a more personal level.
Despite his contentious history with the UFC, Riddle harbors no resentment, emphasizing, "I never say never. If the opportunity is right. I don't really hold a grudge." He reminisced about his departure from the UFC, expressing satisfaction with his transition to pro wrestling while also revealing a lingering desire to compete in MMA again: "I did good (and am) still doing it. 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?"
As the combat sports community watches closely, Matt Riddle's potential return to MMA continues to generate excitement and anticipation. Whether he re-enters the cage or continues to dominate the wrestling world, one thing is certain: Riddle's competitive spirit remains unquenched.