Speculation Around Matt Riddle's Potential Return to MMA
The combat sports community is abuzz with the prospect of former UFC fighter and current professional wrestler Matt Riddle making a return to mixed martial arts (MMA) in 2024. At 37, Riddle has been engaging in discussions with various organizations, hinting at a comeback that could see him step back into the ring or cage after a decade-long hiatus.
MMA Comeback on the Horizon?
Riddle's potential return was first reported by the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, which mentioned possible offers from bare-knuckle fighting promotions and the Professional Fighters League (PFL). While details remain sparse, Riddle's presence at the Jake Paul vs. Andre August boxing match in Orlando has only fueled further speculation about his intentions.
In an interview with MMA Junkie, Riddle expressed optimism about his future in combat sports. "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." This statement has left fans and analysts pondering over where he might end up and how he will fare after years away from competitive MMA.
A Controversial Past and a Flourishing Wrestling Career
Riddle's tenure in the UFC ended controversially in 2013, despite being on a four-win streak, due to failed drug tests for marijuana. His last MMA fight took place in February 2014 against Michael Kuiper at Titan FC, which he won. The UFC's president, Dana White, did not hold back his criticism when Riddle departed from the organization, a move that inadvertently raised Riddle's profile among fans.
"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 acknowledged. He credits White's public criticism as a catalyst for his 'bro' character, which has resonated with many fans who relate to being reprimanded by authority figures.
Since transitioning to professional wrestling in 2014, Riddle has made significant strides. He trained for professional wrestling and debuted in 2015, quickly making a name for himself across various independent promotions, capturing several titles along the way. His wrestling career reached new heights when he joined WWE NXT in 2018, winning the NXT Tag Team Championship with Pete Dunne.
By February 2021, Riddle had ascended to WWE's main roster and secured the United States Championship. His success continued as he formed the popular tag team "RK-Bro" with Randy Orton, becoming a two-time Raw Tag Team Champion.
Never Saying Never
Despite his achievements in professional wrestling, Riddle remains passionate about martial arts, training multiple times a week, and holding a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. His dedication to staying combat-ready suggests that a transition back to MMA could be seamless should he choose to do so.
Riddle's openness to opportunities reflects his philosophy of leaving the past behind. "I never say never," he stated. "If the opportunity is right. I don't really hold a grudge." This outlook leaves the door open for a variety of possibilities, including reconciling with the UFC or exploring new ventures within the combat sports realm.
Reflecting on his departure from MMA, Riddle feels a sense of unfinished business. "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 said. Despite his love for the squared circle, the allure of competition still tugs at him. "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 the sports world looks on, Matt Riddle's potential return to MMA continues to be a topic of intrigue. Whether he decides to step back into the cage or not, his journey from the octagon to the wrestling ring and possibly back again is a testament to the unpredictable nature of combat sports careers and the enduring spirit of a true competitor.