Matt Riddle Eyes a Return to MMA in 2024
Former UFC fighter and current professional wrestler Matt Riddle has hinted at a potential return to mixed martial arts (MMA) as early as 2024. At 37, Riddle has kept the combat sports community abuzz with speculation about his next move. Despite remaining tight-lipped on specific details, Riddle's discussions with various companies have come to light, suggesting a comeback could be imminent.
Exploring New Horizons
Riddle's career trajectory took an unexpected turn when he transitioned from the octagon to the squared circle. After his last MMA bout in February 2014 against Michael Kuiper at Titan FC, Riddle shifted his focus to professional wrestling. This was following a successful yet controversial stint in the UFC, where he exited on a four-fight winning streak, marred by two victories overturned due to marijuana infractions.
His departure from the UFC wasn't without drama. UFC President Dana White's public criticism of Riddle garnered attention, inadvertently boosting Riddle's profile. Reflecting on this period, Riddle expressed gratitude towards White for the unintended consequences of his remarks. "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 stated. The controversy surrounding his UFC exit laid the groundwork for the 'bro' persona that would become synonymous with his wrestling character.
From the Cage to the Ring
Riddle's pivot to professional wrestling saw him training in 2014 and debuting in 2015. He quickly made a name for himself across various independent promotions, capturing several titles along the way. His prowess inside the ring led him to WWE NXT in 2018, where he secured the NXT Tag Team Championship with Pete Dunne. By February 2021, Riddle had ascended to the main roster and clinched the United States Championship, further cementing his wrestling credentials.
Perhaps one of his most notable achievements in the WWE was forming the tag team "RK-Bro" with veteran superstar Randy Orton. Together, they captured the Raw Tag Team Championship on two occasions, showcasing Riddle's versatility and appeal within the industry.
Never Say Never
Despite his success in wrestling, Riddle has maintained a rigorous martial arts regimen, training multiple times a week and holding a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. His continued dedication to martial arts and presence at high-profile fighting events, such as the Jake Paul vs. Andre August boxing match in Orlando, signals a man who never quite left the fight game behind.
"There's been a lot of talk. I've been talking to a couple of promotions," Riddle told MMA Junkie. "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." His non-committal stance leaves room for speculation while confirming interest from both sides. Reports from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter have even suggested potential offers from bare-knuckle fighting circuits and the Professional Fighters League (PFL), hinting at the range of options available to Riddle.
The former UFC welterweight doesn't hold onto the past with bitterness. When asked about his previous employer, Riddle responded with openness to reconciliation: "I never say never," he said. "If the opportunity is right. I don't really hold a grudge." His pragmatic approach to his career shows a willingness to explore all avenues, including a possible UFC return.
Riddle's reflections on his journey from MMA to professional wrestling and potentially back again reveal a competitor in search of fulfillment. "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. "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 seems unwritten. With his athletic prime nearing its twilight, the coming year may define whether he re-enters the fray of MMA or continues to entertain in the world of professional wrestling. One thing is certain: Matt Riddle remains a fighter at heart, regardless of the arena he chooses to showcase his skills.