Matt Riddle Eyes a Return to MMA in 2024
Former UFC fighter and current professional wrestling star Matt Riddle is considering a return to mixed martial arts (MMA) competition in 2024. At 37, Riddle has been in discussions with several fighting organizations, though he has yet to reveal any specific details. Renowned for his tenure in the UFC and subsequent success in professional wrestling, Riddle's potential return to MMA is generating considerable buzz within the combat sports community.
Potential Offers on the Horizon
The Wrestling Observer Newsletter has reported that Riddle might be weighing options from bare-knuckle fighting promotions as well as the Professional Fighters League (PFL). With a diverse background in combat sports, Riddle's skill set makes him an intriguing prospect for various platforms seeking to add star power to their rosters.
A Look Back at Riddle's MMA Career
Riddle's last appearance in an MMA fight dates back to February 2014, where he secured a victory over Michael Kuiper at a Titan FC event. His departure from the UFC in 2013 followed a four-win streak, culminating in a win against Che Mills. However, two of those victories were later overturned due to failed drug tests for marijuana use. Despite this setback, Riddle left the UFC as a notable competitor, having made an impression with his performances inside the octagon.
Dana White, the UFC President, publicly criticized Riddle following his release from the organization. Yet, Riddle acknowledges that this criticism inadvertently boosted his public profile, laying the groundwork for his 'bro' persona that would become a hallmark of his professional wrestling character.
Riddle's Wrestling Achievements
After transitioning to professional wrestling in 2014, Riddle quickly made a name for himself on the independent circuit, capturing several titles along the way. His wrestling prowess was recognized by WWE NXT, where he joined in 2018 and won the NXT Tag Team Championship with Pete Dunne. By February 2021, Riddle had ascended to the main roster and claimed the United States Championship. His collaboration with Randy Orton led to the formation of "RK-Bro," a team that secured the Raw Tag Team Championship twice.
Despite his success in the squared circle, Riddle has maintained his combat readiness, practicing martial arts multiple times a week. He holds a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, which could prove advantageous should he step back into the cage or ring for another bout.
Remaining a Free Agent
Currently a free agent, Riddle has the flexibility to navigate his career path without contractual constraints. This autonomy allows him to explore opportunities across the spectrum of combat sports, whether it be in MMA, professional wrestling, or other forms of competition.
Riddle's Presence at High-Profile Boxing Match
Riddle's interest in combat sports extends beyond participation; he was recently spotted at the Jake Paul vs. Andre August boxing match in Orlando. His presence at such events underscores his continued engagement with the fighting community and hints at his eagerness to remain connected to the industry.
Riddle Reflects on His Journey
In conversations with MMA Junkie, Riddle expressed a reflective yet ambitious outlook on his career trajectory. "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."
Grateful for the unintended consequences of Dana White's public critique, Riddle credits the incident with helping to shape his relatable 'bro' character. "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 incident seemed to resonate with fans who may have experienced similar harsh feedback in their own lives.
When discussing his past and future in fighting, Riddle remains open-minded. "I never say never," he stated. "If the opportunity is right. I don't really hold a grudge." His tenure in the UFC, albeit ending on a controversial note, combined with his success in professional wrestling, suggests a competitive spirit that is far from being extinguished.
"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," Riddle recounted. "I did good (and am) still doing it. Pro wrestling is awesome, but I still want to get beat up