Matt Riddle Eyes a Potential Return to MMA in 2024
Former UFC fighter and current professional wrestler Matt Riddle could be making a sensational return to mixed martial arts (MMA) in 2024. At the age of 37, Riddle is contemplating a comeback to the sport where he first made his mark. While details remain sparse, the athlete has been in talks with several organizations about a potential re-entry into combat sports.
Exploring New Opportunities
Riddle has kept the specifics of his discussions under wraps, but sources close to the situation have revealed that there is interest from various corners of the fight world. The Wrestling Observer Newsletter has reported that among those interested are bare-knuckle boxing promotions and the Professional Fighters League (PFL), indicating a diverse range of options for Riddle's potential return.
The Pennsylvania native's last appearance in an MMA bout was in February 2014 when he faced Michael Kuiper at a Titan FC event. His tenure with the UFC ended on a controversial note; despite leaving on a four-fight winning streak after a victory over Che Mills in 2013, two of those wins were later overturned due to failed drug tests for marijuana. The situation led to public criticism from UFC President Dana White.
From the Octagon to the Ring
Following his exit from the UFC, Riddle transitioned to professional wrestling. He began training in 2014 and debuted in the squared circle in 2015. His natural charisma and athleticism helped him quickly rise through the ranks of various independent circuits, capturing several titles along the way.
In 2018, Riddle's career took a significant turn as he joined WWE NXT, where he won the NXT Tag Team Championship with partner Pete Dunne. His success continued on WWE's main roster, where he claimed the United States Championship in February 2021. Riddle also formed a popular tag team with veteran superstar Randy Orton known as "RK-Bro," securing the Raw Tag Team Championship on two occasions.
Despite his achievements in professional wrestling, Riddle has maintained his connection to martial arts, training multiple times a week. His dedication to the craft is evident in his status as a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, a rank that requires years of disciplined practice and skill.
Reflecting on the Past and Looking to the Future
Riddle recently attended the Jake Paul vs. Andre August boxing match in Orlando, which sparked further speculation about his combat sports ambitions. In an interview with MMA Junkie, Riddle expressed his thoughts on a possible 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."
Regarding his departure from the UFC and the subsequent fallout with Dana White, Riddle harbors no ill will. He credits White's outspokenness for inadvertently boosting his profile, which helped him pivot to professional wrestling successfully. "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. This experience seemingly laid the foundation for his 'bro' persona, which has resonated with fans worldwide.
"I never say never," Riddle added, reflecting on his past and potential future in MMA. "If the opportunity is right. I don't really hold a grudge." He reminisced about his UFC days, feeling that he had more to offer in the sport before making the switch to professional wrestling. "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. Despite enjoying his time in wrestling, the allure of competition still calls to 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 Riddle weighs his options, the combat sports community watches with bated breath. Whether he steps back into the cage or continues to entertain in the wrestling ring, his next move is sure to capture the attention of fans around the globe.