Matt Riddle Eyes a Return to MMA in 2024
Former UFC fighter and current professional wrestling star Matt Riddle has hinted at a possible return to mixed martial arts (MMA) competition in 2024. At 37 years old, Riddle has kept the combat sports community abuzz with speculation about his next move.
Since transitioning from the octagon to the squared circle, Riddle has carved out a successful career in professional wrestling. However, the allure of the cage remains strong for the athlete who last competed in MMA nearly a decade ago.
Exploring Options Across Promotions
Riddle's discussions with various fighting organizations have been discreet, yet he has confirmed ongoing conversations with interested parties. The Wrestling Observer Newsletter has reported that Riddle may be considering offers from bare-knuckle fighting entities and the Professional Fighters League (PFL), among others. This suggests that Riddle is not limiting his options to traditional MMA platforms, potentially exploring the wider combat sports landscape for his return.
A Look Back at Riddle's MMA Career
Riddle's tenure in the UFC was notable, departing the promotion on a four-fight winning streak in 2013 after a victory over Che Mills. Despite this impressive run, two of those wins were later overturned due to Riddle's failed drug tests for marijuana, which became a point of contention and led to public criticism from UFC President Dana White.
Following his exit from the UFC, Riddle's final MMA bout took place in February 2014 against Michael Kuiper under the Titan FC banner, where he secured another win. His departure from MMA was not due to a decline in performance but rather a pivot to pursue a career in professional wrestling.
Transition to Professional Wrestling
Riddle began his training for professional wrestling in 2014 and made his debut in 2015. He quickly rose through the ranks of various independent promotions, capturing several titles along the way. His prowess in the ring caught the attention of WWE scouts, leading to his joining of WWE NXT in 2018.
During his time with NXT, Riddle teamed up with Pete Dunne to win the NXT Tag Team Championship. His success continued as he moved to WWE's main roster, securing the United States Championship in February 2021. Riddle also formed a popular tag team known as "RK-Bro" with veteran wrestler Randy Orton, claiming the Raw Tag Team Championship twice.
Despite his wrestling schedule, Riddle maintains his combat skills by practicing martial arts multiple times a week and holds a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. His presence at combat sports events, such as the Jake Paul vs. Andre August boxing match in Orlando, keeps him connected to the fight community.
Riddle Reflects on His Journey and Future
In an interview with MMA Junkie, Riddle expressed his thoughts on a potential return to fighting. "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."
Reflecting on his past, Riddle acknowledges the impact Dana White's criticism had on his career trajectory. "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 commented. The controversy seemed to resonate with fans, giving rise to his 'bro' character in the wrestling world.
Despite the rocky end to his UFC stint, Riddle harbors no ill feelings. "I never say never," he stated, indicating a willingness to move past former grievances if the right opportunity presents itself. His competitive spirit remains undiminished, as he mused about his desire to fight again. "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 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?"
Currently a free agent, Riddle's future in combat sports is ripe with possibilities. Whether he returns to the cage or continues to entertain in the wrestling arena, his fans will eagerly anticipate his next chapter.