Matt Riddle Eyes a Return to MMA in 2024
Former UFC fighter and current professional wrestling star Matt Riddle has hinted at a potential return to mixed martial arts (MMA) competition in 2024. At 37, Riddle is considering stepping back into the ring or cage after a decade-long hiatus from the sport.
Riddle's combat sports journey has been nothing short of eclectic. Since his departure from the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in 2013, he has made a name for himself in the world of professional wrestling. However, it appears that the itch to compete in MMA has never fully dissipated for the Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt.
Exploring Options Across Promotions
While Riddle has been in discussions with various organizations, 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 emphasized that nothing is official yet but expressed optimism about a comeback in 2024.
The Wrestling Observer Newsletter has reported that Riddle might be weighing offers from different combat sports entities, including bare-knuckle fighting circuits and the Professional Fighters League (PFL). These opportunities suggest a wide array of avenues for Riddle's potential re-entry into combat sports.
A Controversial Past and a New Beginning
Riddle's last MMA bout took place in February 2014 against Michael Kuiper under the Titan FC banner. Prior to that, his tenure with the UFC concluded on a controversial note. Despite leaving the organization on a four-win streak after a victory over Che Mills, two of those wins were later overturned due to failed drug tests for marijuana. The circumstances surrounding his exit were compounded by public criticism from UFC President Dana White.
Despite the rocky end to his UFC career, Riddle harbors no resentment. Reflecting on the past, he credits White's outspokenness for inadvertently boosting his profile. "I have to thank Dana, because if he were to just fire me and not say anything, nobody probably would've known about me," Riddle acknowledged. This controversy laid the groundwork for the 'bro' persona that would become synonymous with his wrestling character.
Remaining open to possibilities, Riddle said, "I never say never. If the opportunity is right. I don't really hold a grudge." His amicable stance suggests that a return to the UFC could even be within the realm of possibility, should the conditions align.
Success in Professional Wrestling
Following his MMA career, Riddle transitioned to professional wrestling. He began training in 2014 and debuted in the squared circle in 2015. His natural charisma and athletic prowess quickly propelled him through the ranks of various independent promotions, where he captured several titles along the way.
Riddle's wrestling career reached new heights when he joined WWE NXT in 2018. There, he secured the NXT Tag Team Championship alongside Pete Dunne. His success continued as he ascended to WWE's main roster, capturing the United States Championship in February 2021. Alongside Randy Orton, Riddle formed the popular tag team "RK-Bro," securing the Raw Tag Team Championship on two occasions.
Despite his accomplishments in wrestling, Riddle maintains a rigorous martial arts regimen, practicing multiple times a week. His dedication to staying combat-ready fuels speculation about his readiness to re-enter the competitive MMA landscape.
Staying in the Public Eye
Riddle's visibility remains high outside the wrestling ring as well. He was recently spotted at the Jake Paul vs. Andre August boxing match in Orlando, signaling his continued interest in the combat sports scene.
In summary, Matt Riddle's potential return to MMA adds an intriguing storyline to follow over the next year. With his background, age, and experience, Riddle's re-entry into MMA would certainly garner attention from both MMA and professional wrestling fans alike. Whether he returns to the cage for a final chapter in his combat sports career or continues to entertain in the wrestling ring, Riddle's journey continues to captivate audiences worldwide.