A Potential Return to the Cage for Matt Riddle
As the combat sports world continues to evolve, one name is resurfacing with the potential for a dramatic comeback. Matt Riddle, the former UFC fighter turned professional wrestler, has hinted at a possible return to mixed martial arts (MMA) in 2024. At 37, Riddle's athletic career has been anything but conventional, and this latest development adds yet another intriguing chapter.
Mulling Over MMA Comeback
Riddle's career trajectory has been a topic of discussion among fight fans and insiders alike. While he has not committed to any specific organization, his conversations with various companies have sparked speculation. The Wrestling Observer Newsletter has reported that Riddle might be considering offers from both bare-knuckle fighting promotions and the Professional Fighters League (PFL), signaling a broad range of interest in his fighting talents.
Having last stepped into the MMA ring in February 2014 at a Titan FC event against Michael Kuiper, Riddle left the sport on a high note, albeit one marred by controversy. His departure from the UFC was surrounded by a four-win streak, including a notable victory over Che Mills. However, two of those wins were later overturned due to failed drug tests for marijuana, leading to a public fallout with UFC President Dana White.
From UFC Outcast to Wrestling Stardom
The very public criticism from White may have closed one door for Riddle, but it opened several others. "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 controversy seemed to resonate with many, laying the groundwork for the 'bro' character that would become synonymous with Riddle's wrestling persona.
After leaving the UFC, Riddle transitioned to professional wrestling, starting training in 2014 and making his debut the following year. His natural charisma and athleticism quickly propelled him through the ranks of various independent promotions, where he captured several titles. By 2018, Riddle had made his way to WWE NXT, clinching the NXT Tag Team Championship with Pete Dunne. His momentum didn't stop there; he ascended to the main roster and secured the United States Championship in February 2021.
Riddle also found success as part of the tag team "RK-Bro" alongside Randy Orton, with whom he won the Raw Tag Team Championship twice. Despite his wrestling schedule, Riddle maintains his martial arts regimen, practicing multiple times a week and holding a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu—a testament to his dedication and love for combat sports.
The Bro's Next Moves
Currently a free agent, Riddle's presence at high-profile boxing events like the Jake Paul vs. Andre August match in Orlando suggests he's keeping a close eye on the fight game. His statements to MMA Junkie further fuel the anticipation of his fans and critics alike. "There's been a lot of talk. I've been talking to a couple of promotions," Riddle shared. "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."
Despite past grievances, Riddle harbors no ill will towards the UFC or Dana White. "I never say never," he said, indicating an openness to burying the hatchet if the right opportunity presents itself. His tenure in the UFC ended with him feeling unfulfilled in terms of his fighting career, despite transitioning successfully to pro wrestling. "I did good [in pro wrestling] 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?" Riddle mused.
The prospect of Riddle returning to MMA brings with it a host of questions and possibilities. Will he return to the familiar confines of the octagon, or will he venture into the less-charted territories of bare-knuckle fighting? Can he recapture the form that saw him string together a series of victories in the UFC, or has his time in the squared circle changed him as a competitor?
Only time will tell if Matt Riddle will make his way back to the world of MMA. For now, fans can only speculate and wait for an official announcement. One thing is certain: Riddle's competitive spirit remains undiminished, and his potential return to combat sports could shake up the landscape in 2024.