Matt Riddle Eyes Potential Return to MMA in 2024
Former UFC fighter and professional wrestler Matt Riddle has hinted at a possible return to mixed martial arts (MMA) competition in 2024. At the age of 37, Riddle is considering stepping back into the ring or cage after a decade-long hiatus from MMA.
Riddle, who transitioned to professional wrestling following his MMA career, has been in discussions with various combat sports organizations, though he has yet to disclose any specifics. His negotiations have caught the attention of the industry, with the Wrestling Observer Newsletter reporting potential offers from both bare-knuckle fighting promotions and the Professional Fighters League (PFL).
The athlete's last MMA bout took place in February 2014 when he faced Michael Kuiper at Titan FC. Before that, Riddle was part of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), where he exited on a notable four-win streak in 2013 after a victory over Che Mills. However, two of those wins were later overturned due to Riddle failing drug tests for marijuana use, an issue that led to public criticism from UFC President Dana White.
Despite the controversy, Riddle has managed to maintain a successful athletic career. After leaving the UFC, he pursued professional wrestling, beginning his training in 2014 and making his debut the following year. He quickly made a name for himself on the independent circuit, capturing several titles before joining WWE NXT in 2018. There, he won the NXT Tag Team Championship alongside Pete Dunne.
Riddle's success continued as he ascended to WWE's main roster, securing the United States Championship in February 2021. He also formed the popular tag team "RK-Bro" with veteran wrestler Randy Orton, with whom he won the Raw Tag Team Championship twice. Despite his wrestling commitments, Riddle has kept his martial arts skills sharp, practicing multiple times a week and holding a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
Recently spotted at the Jake Paul vs. Andre August boxing match in Orlando, Riddle's presence at combat sports events has only fueled speculation about his return to active competition in MMA.
Riddle Reflects on His Journey and UFC Departure
In an interview with MMA Junkie, Riddle expressed his openness to re-entering the world of MMA, 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 departure from the UFC and how it shaped his subsequent career. "I have to thank Dana, because if he were to just fire me and not say anything, nobody probably would've known about me," he acknowledged. The outspoken nature of White's criticism seemed to resonate with fans and helped Riddle develop his 'bro' character, which became a cornerstone of his wrestling persona.
He maintains a pragmatic perspective about his past with the UFC and his future prospects. "I never say never," Riddle commented. "If the opportunity is right. I don't really hold a grudge." He reminisced about his time in the octagon, feeling that despite his departure, he left behind a solid track record. "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.
Yet, the competitive spirit still burns within Riddle, as he contemplates his potential return to MMA. "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?" he mused.
As a free agent, Riddle has the flexibility to navigate his career path without the constraints of a long-term contract. This autonomy could serve him well as he explores opportunities to rekindle his MMA career. With his proven track record in combat sports and entertainment, Riddle's potential return to MMA is sure to garner significant interest from fans and promoters alike.
Whether Riddle will indeed step back into the world of MMA remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: his diverse skill set and charismatic personality ensure that he will remain a fixture in the spotlight, regardless of the arena he chooses to conquer next.