Speculations on Matt Riddle's Return to MMA
Former UFC fighter and current professional wrestler Matt Riddle may be eyeing a sensational return to mixed martial arts (MMA) in 2024. At 37 years of age, Riddle has sparked considerable buzz with his recent comments regarding a potential comeback to the sport where he first made his mark.
Riddle, whose last foray into MMA occurred in February 2014 at Titan FC against Michael Kuiper, has been actively engaging in conversations with various organizations. While details remain sparse, credible sources have hinted at possible offers on the table. The Wrestling Observer Newsletter has reported that Riddle could be considering options from bare-knuckle fighting circuits as well as the Professional Fighters League (PFL).
His departure from the UFC was marred by controversy; despite leaving on a four-fight winning streak after a victory over Che Mills in 2013, two of those wins were later nullified due to failed drug tests for marijuana. Dana White, the president of the UFC, did not hold back in his criticism of Riddle following his exit from the organization.
Currently a free agent, Riddle has not confined his athletic prowess to the octagon. After transitioning to professional wrestling in 2014, he quickly made a name for himself, debuting in 2015 and going on to claim several titles across various independent promotions. His wrestling career soared when he joined WWE NXT in 2018, capturing the NXT Tag Team Championship alongside Pete Dunne.
Riddle's momentum continued as he advanced to WWE's main roster, securing the United States Championship in February 2021. Alongside Randy Orton, he formed the popular "RK-Bro" duo, which led them to clinch the Raw Tag Team Championship twice.
Despite his success in the squared circle, Riddle maintains a close connection to combat sports, practicing martial arts multiple times a week and holding a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. He was recently spotted at the Jake Paul vs. Andre August boxing match in Orlando, further fueling speculation about his return to fighting.
Riddle's Perspective on His Career and Future
In an interview with MMA Junkie, Riddle expressed his openness to stepping back into the ring or cage, stating, "There's been a lot of talk. I've been talking to a couple of promotions. 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."
Riddle also reflected on his contentious departure from the UFC, offering a surprising note of gratitude toward Dana White. "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 remarked. He suggested that White's public criticism helped shape his 'bro' persona, resonating with fans who have experienced similar rebukes in their own lives.
When it comes to past grievances, Riddle appears ready to bury the hatchet, saying, "I never say never. If the opportunity is right. I don't really hold a grudge." His pragmatic approach suggests that a return to the UFC could be within the realm of possibility if circumstances align.
Reflecting on his journey from MMA to professional wrestling, Riddle acknowledges his seamless transition and success in the latter, while still harboring a desire to compete in combat sports. "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. "I did good [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?"
This blend of nostalgia for his MMA roots and a candid yearning for the thrill of combat suggests that Riddle's story within the world of fighting sports is far from over. Whether his future lies within the confines of a wrestling ring or the more perilous bounds of the MMA cage remains to be seen. What is certain is that Riddle's competitive spirit burns as fiercely as ever, and his potential return to MMA in 2024 is a prospect that has fans and fighters alike watching closely.