Matt Riddle Eyes a Potential Return to MMA in 2024
Former UFC fighter and current professional wrestling star Matt Riddle is contemplating a return to mixed martial arts (MMA) competition in 2024. At 37, Riddle has been in discussions with various fighting organizations, though he has yet to disclose any specifics regarding potential deals.
The Wrestling Observer Newsletter has reported that Riddle could be weighing offers from the world of bare-knuckle fighting as well as the Professional Fighters League (PFL). These talks suggest a significant shift for Riddle, who has not competed in an MMA bout since his February 2014 victory over Michael Kuiper at Titan FC.
Riddle's Mixed Martial Arts Legacy
Riddle's tenure in the UFC ended on a controversial note in 2013 after he was released following a four-win streak, capped by a win against Che Mills. Despite his success inside the octagon, two of those victories were later overturned due to Riddle's failed drug tests for marijuana, which became a point of contention between him and UFC President Dana White. White's public criticism of Riddle following his release inadvertently raised the fighter's profile, setting the stage for his next career move.
"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 reflected. The fighter's laid-back personality and the 'bro' persona he adopted seemed to resonate with fans, many of whom had experienced similar criticisms in their own lives.
Transition to Professional Wrestling
Following his departure from MMA, Riddle embarked on a new journey in professional wrestling. He began training in 2014 and made his debut in the ring in 2015. His natural athleticism and charisma led to success across various independent promotions where he captured several championships.
In 2018, Riddle's wrestling career took a significant leap forward when he joined WWE NXT. There, he honed his craft and achieved notable success, including winning the NXT Tag Team Championship with partner Pete Dunne. His momentum continued as he ascended to WWE's main roster, capturing the United States Championship in February 2021.
Riddle's partnership with veteran wrestler Randy Orton led to the formation of the popular tag team "RK-Bro." Together, they clinched the Raw Tag Team Championship twice, cementing Riddle's status as a versatile performer capable of thriving in both singles and tag team competition.
Athletic Discipline and Future Ambitions
Despite his busy schedule in the squared circle, Riddle has maintained his combat sports regimen, practicing martial arts multiple times a week. His dedication to the discipline is evident as he holds a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu—a testament to his skills and commitment to the art form.
Riddle's presence at high-profile boxing events, such as the Jake Paul vs. Andre August match in Orlando, signals his continued interest in combat sports beyond the theatrical realm of professional wrestling. His statement to MMA Junkie underscores this sentiment: "There's been a lot of talk. I've been talking to a couple of promotions," he said. "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 reflects on his transition from MMA to professional wrestling with a sense of accomplishment and gratitude for the experiences he's had. "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 said. "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 a free agent, Riddle's future in combat sports remains an open book. His willingness to entertain a return to MMA, coupled with his ongoing success in professional wrestling, positions him as a unique athlete straddling the line between scripted entertainment and competitive fighting. "I never say never," Riddle stated. "If the opportunity is right. I don't really hold a grudge."
Whether Riddle steps back into the cage or continues to captivate audiences in the wrestling ring, his athletic prowess and charismatic 'bro' persona will undoubtedly continue to draw attention and speculation about his next big move.