Matt Riddle Eyes a Return to MMA in 2024
Former UFC fighter and current professional wrestler Matt Riddle has hinted at a potential return to mixed martial arts (MMA) in 2024. At 37, Riddle is exploring his options and considering stepping back into the competitive fighting arena after a successful stint in the wrestling world.
Riddle's combat sports journey has been anything but conventional. After leaving the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) on a high note with four consecutive wins, he transitioned into professional wrestling, where he continued to build an impressive resume. However, the allure of the cage remains strong for Riddle, who has kept himself in fighting shape through consistent martial arts training.
Potential Opportunities on the Horizon
While Riddle has been in discussions with various organizations, details remain under wraps as negotiations are ongoing. The Wrestling Observer Newsletter has reported that opportunities could arise from different combat sports avenues, including bare-knuckle boxing and the Professional Fighters League (PFL). The athlete's last MMA bout took place in February 2014 at Titan FC, where he faced off against Michael Kuiper, suggesting that Riddle's return to MMA would mark a decade since his last fight in the sport.
Despite his departure from the UFC in 2013—under contentious circumstances due to failed drug tests for marijuana and subsequent criticism from UFC President Dana White—Riddle has maintained a positive outlook. He credits White's public reprimand for increasing his notoriety, which inadvertently helped him establish his "bro" persona in the professional wrestling world.
A Diverse and Successful Career
After his UFC exit, Riddle immediately pivoted to professional wrestling, beginning his training in 2014 and making his debut the following year. His natural charisma and athletic prowess quickly propelled him through the ranks of various independent promotions, earning him several titles along the way.
In 2018, Riddle joined WWE NXT, capturing 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. Alongside Randy Orton, Riddle formed the popular tag team "RK-Bro," winning the Raw Tag Team Championship twice, further cementing his status as a versatile and entertaining performer.
Despite his wrestling commitments, Riddle has remained active in martial arts, training multiple times a week. His dedication to the craft is evident in his achievement of a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, a testament to his skills and commitment to continuous improvement.
The Future for Riddle
Riddle's presence at high-profile boxing events, such as the Jake Paul vs. Andre August match in Orlando, indicates his continued interest in combat sports. It also offers a glimpse into the connections and visibility he maintains within the fighting community.
In conversations with MMA Junkie, Riddle expressed his openness to returning to the ring or cage, though he's keeping specifics close to the vest until plans are finalized. He acknowledges his past successes in the UFC and beyond, yet he harbors no ill will, stating, "I never say never. If the opportunity is right. I don't really hold a grudge."
His reflections on his career thus far reveal a competitor who is not only looking for closure but is also eager to challenge himself once again. "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.
As the combat sports world watches with anticipation, Matt Riddle's potential return to MMA could be one of the most intriguing comebacks in recent memory. With his skill set, experience, and fan following, Riddle's re-entry into MMA in 2024 could add another captivating chapter to his already storied career.