Matt Riddle Eyes a Return to MMA
Former UFC fighter and current professional wrestling star Matt Riddle has hinted at a potential return to mixed martial arts in 2024. At the age of 37, Riddle is considering stepping back into the combat sports arena where he first made his name.
Riddle's career has been marked by a series of discussions with various organizations, though he remains tight-lipped about the specifics. According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, there have been overtures from both bare-knuckle fighting entities and the Professional Fighters League (PFL), suggesting that Riddle's options are open and varied.
The athlete's last foray into the MMA world was in February 2014 when he faced Michael Kuiper under the Titan FC banner. This followed a notable stint in the UFC, where Riddle left on a high note with a four-win streak after defeating Che Mills in 2013. However, two of those victories were later overturned due to failed drug tests for marijuana, which led to a public spat with UFC President Dana White.
Despite this controversy, Riddle reflects on his departure from the UFC with a sense of gratitude, particularly towards White. The public criticism he received from the UFC head honcho inadvertently raised his profile and laid the groundwork for his 'bro' persona, which would become a cornerstone of his professional wrestling character.
Riddle's Transition to Professional Wrestling
After leaving MMA, Riddle transitioned to professional wrestling, beginning his training in 2014 and making his debut the following year. He quickly made a name for himself across various independent promotions, capturing several titles along the way.
His wrestling prowess caught the attention of WWE, leading to his joining NXT in 2018 where he achieved success as one-half of the NXT Tag Team Champions with Pete Dunne. Riddle's momentum carried him onto WWE's main roster, where he secured the United States Championship in February 2021.
A highlight of his wrestling career has been forming the popular tag team "RK-Bro" with veteran superstar Randy Orton. Together, they captured the Raw Tag Team Championship on two occasions, cementing Riddle's status as a top performer in the industry.
Despite his achievements in the squared circle, Riddle has maintained his combat readiness, practicing martial arts multiple times a week and holding a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. His continued dedication to martial arts training indicates that a return to MMA could be more than just a fleeting thought.
Potential Comeback and Legacy
Riddle's presence at high-profile combat sports events, such as the Jake Paul vs. Andre August boxing match in Orlando, keeps him connected to the fight community and fuels speculation about his next move.
In conversations with MMA Junkie, Riddle expressed his openness to returning to MMA, stating, "There's been a lot of talk. I've been talking to a couple of promotions. 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."
Reflecting on his past and potential future in MMA, Riddle acknowledges the unfinished business he has within the sport. "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," he explained. "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's attitude towards his past with the UFC and Dana White is remarkably sanguine. "I never say never," Riddle remarked regarding any lingering animosity. "If the opportunity is right. I don't really hold a grudge."
Currently a free agent, Riddle's potential pivot back to MMA adds an intriguing chapter to his already diverse career. Whether he steps back into the cage or continues to entertain wrestling fans worldwide, Riddle's competitive spirit and multifaceted skill set ensure that he will remain a compelling figure in the world of combat sports.