A Potential Return to MMA for Matt Riddle in 2024
Former UFC fighter and current professional wrestler Matt Riddle has sparked conversations about a potential return to mixed martial arts (MMA) by 2024. At 37 years of age, Riddle is considering stepping back into the ring or cage, as he revealed in discussions with various organizations.
Exploring New Opportunities
Riddle's career has been a journey through different combat sports, from his time in the UFC to his transition into professional wrestling. As he navigates his status as a free agent, Riddle has engaged in talks with multiple promotions, hinting at a comeback without divulging specifics. The Wrestling Observer Newsletter has reported that these talks include potential offers from bare-knuckle fighting circuits and the Professional Fighters League (PFL), suggesting a broad spectrum of interest in Riddle's return to combat sports.
The athlete's last MMA bout took place in February 2014 against Michael Kuiper under the banner of Titan FC. This followed his departure from the UFC, where he left on what was officially recorded as a four-win streak after defeating Che Mills in 2013. However, it's worth noting that two of those victories were later overturned due to failed drug tests for marijuana, which had also attracted criticism from UFC President Dana White.
From the Octagon to the Squared Circle
Despite the controversy, Riddle's exit from the UFC marked the beginning of a new chapter in his career. He began training for professional wrestling in 2014 and made his debut in the squared circle in 2015. His charisma and athletic prowess quickly earned him a reputation on the independent circuit, where he collected several titles.
In 2018, Riddle's wrestling career took a significant leap forward when he joined WWE NXT. There, he not only showcased his skills but also secured the NXT Tag Team Championship with Pete Dunne. By February 2021, Riddle's success continued on WWE's main roster, where he captured the United States Championship. His partnership with Randy Orton, forming the team "RK-Bro," led to them becoming two-time Raw Tag Team Champions.
Despite his wrestling accolades, Riddle has maintained his martial arts regimen, practicing multiple times each week. His dedication to the craft is evident, as he holds a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu—a discipline that could serve him well should he decide to step back into MMA competition.
Riddle's Public Appearances and Persona
Riddle's public persona has remained in the spotlight, as seen during his appearance at the Jake Paul vs. Andre August boxing match in Orlando. His laid-back 'bro' character, which resonated with fans, can be traced back to the aftermath of his UFC tenure. Reflecting on White's public criticism, Riddle expressed gratitude, believing that it helped people relate to him and contributed to the development of his wrestling character.
Reflections and Future Prospects
In an interview with MMA Junkie, Riddle spoke candidly about his past and future in combat sports. "There's been a lot of talk. I've been talking to a couple of promotions," he said. While eager to make official announcements, he remains cautious, teasing the possibility of his return without confirming any deals.
Riddle's reflections on his UFC career reveal no bitterness. "I have to thank Dana, because if he were to just fire me and not say anything, nobody probably would've known about me," he admitted. His ability to turn a negative into a positive has been a hallmark of his career, and despite the setbacks, he hasn't ruled out a return to the UFC. "I never say never," he stated, showing openness to reconciling past differences if the right opportunity arises.
His love for competition remains undiminished, as does his desire for a proper exit from the sport that once defined him. "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 reflected. The transition to wrestling has been fruitful, but the itch to compete in a more combative setting lingers. "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 mused.
As the world of combat sports watches with bated breath, Matt Riddle's next move remains a tantalizing mystery. Whether he returns to MMA or continues to entertain in the wrestling arena, his competitive spirit and diverse skill set promise to keep