Speculations Over Matt Riddle's Return to MMA
The sports world is abuzz with the possibility of former UFC fighter and current professional wrestler Matt Riddle making a return to mixed martial arts (MMA) in 2024. At 37 years old, Riddle has hinted at a potential comeback, stirring excitement among fans who have followed his eclectic career from the octagon to the wrestling ring.
Exploring Opportunities
Riddle has been in discussions with various companies about a return to combat sports, though he remains tight-lipped about the specifics. "There's been a lot of talk. I've been talking to a couple of promotions," Riddle disclosed to 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." This statement has led to widespread speculation, with credible sources such as the Wrestling Observer Newsletter citing potential offers from both bare-knuckle fighting entities and the Professional Fighters League (PFL).
A Controversial Past and a Fresh Start
Riddle's tenure in the UFC was marked by a series of ups and downs. He exited the promotion on a four-win streak in 2013 after a victory over Che Mills. However, two of those wins were later overturned due to failed drug tests for marijuana, leading to criticism from UFC President Dana White. Reflecting on this turbulent time, Riddle sees a silver lining. "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 acknowledged, suggesting that White's public censure inadvertently boosted his profile.
Despite the rocky end to his UFC stint, Riddle transitioned smoothly into professional wrestling, beginning his training in 2014 and debuting the following year. His charisma and athletic prowess quickly propelled him through the ranks of various independent promotions, where he captured several titles. In 2018, Riddle joined WWE NXT, clinching the NXT Tag Team Championship with Pete Dunne. His momentum continued as he ascended to the main roster, securing the United States Championship in February 2021.
Tag Team Success and Maintaining Fight Readiness
Not one to rest on his laurels, Riddle formed a successful tag team with Randy Orton, known as "RK-Bro," capturing the Raw Tag Team Championship twice. Despite his wrestling commitments, Riddle maintains his combat skills, practicing martial arts multiple times a week and holding a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu—a testament to his dedication and love for martial disciplines.
His presence at high-profile combat sports events, such as the Jake Paul vs. Andre August boxing match in Orlando, keeps him within the fight community's eye and fuels further speculation about his future endeavors.
Looking Ahead Without Resentment
Riddle's outlook on his past and potential future in MMA is remarkably philosophical. "I never say never," he remarked, indicating an openness to revisiting his roots in MMA despite past controversies. "If the opportunity is right. I don't really hold a grudge." His attitude reflects a fighter ready to embrace whatever challenges come next, whether inside a wrestling ring or an MMA cage.
He fondly recalls his departure from the UFC, not as an end, but as a transition to new opportunities. "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. Pro wrestling has been good to Riddle, but the itch to compete in a more physical and less scripted environment persists. "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 holds the keys to his destiny. Whether he chooses to step back into the cage or continue entertaining crowds in the squared circle, his athletic journey continues to captivate audiences worldwide. The coming months may well determine if we will once again witness the 'bro' character, who resonated with so many, make a triumphant return to the realm of MMA.