The world of wrestling has proved one can have a successful career outside the confines of big enterprises such as the WWE. Drawing from an example is the tale of Matt Riddle, a former star of the WWE and United States Champion. His time with the organization ended abruptly amid several controversies at an airport. His term with the WWE was marked by an unfortunate series of drug-related issues and a tour of a rehabilitation center, resulting in his inevitable departure.
Post his release from WWE, Riddle picked up his career again, engaging in combats in multiple other arenas worldwide. He wasted no time spiraling into the independent wrestling scene, participating in a variety of prominent wrestling promotions. You can spot Riddle wrestling in NJPW, TNA, AAA, to name a few, continuously shaping and enhancing his career.
Riddle recently graced the series – ‘Developmentally Speaking’, where he was inevitably asked about a potential return to WWE. Riddle, who also has a history in UFC, confessed his willingness to get back to the company if given another chance. He expresses, ‘If a situation arises where they would welcome me again, I would absolutely accept without hesitation.’
His statement continues, ‘In my hindsight, I believe I was overwhelmed by the intensity of work during my time at WWE. The extended duration of my engagement there added to the strain.’ Rehabilitative therapies aren’t quite as relaxing as people might imagine. It’s a hard fight, not a refreshing break. And I was left to bear the brunt.’
He further adds, ‘Frankly speaking, I think it made the situation worsen. Swinging back from rehab to constant televised promotions, piling work stress, anticipating another child, and maintaining everything else in my life—it became overbearing. I succumbed to the pressure.’
Riddle sheds light on the incident leading to his release, ‘All it takes is one person crossing a line and one inappropriate comment about me, irrespective of my level of sobriety, to release pent-up frustration. And I’m responsible for my actions, getting out of line in that stressful episode. Even if I admit my wrong, I accepted the consequences and continue to pay them.’
Despite his challenging past, Riddle perceives his release from UFC in a positive light, terming it as a ‘blessing in disguise’. He then associates the same perspective with his departure from the WWE. He elaborates, ‘Considering it retrospectively, getting fired from UFC for a marijuana-related offense worked in my favor. It opened up opportunities for me to join WWE and build a name for myself.’
‘Next, I explored Japan and achieved the Television Title from Tanahashi-san post my expatriation from WWE. Later, I proceeded to Mexico, where I defeated Komander, earning the AAA Championship.’
Riddle exclaims, ‘Now, I’m one step away from adding the MLW Championship to my collection, supplementing the Combat ONE Championship I already possess. With a hefty stack of eight championships decorating my household at present, I feel a sense of accomplishment.’
There are voices raising eyebrows, criticizing his glory isn’t on WWE grounds, to which he responds, ‘However, I’m genuinely content. It’s not about whether it’s WWE or not, I’m at peace with my journey.’
Riddle has always maintained an independent mindset, clearly stating to his loved ones, ‘Even if I never get into WWE, I will find happiness regardless.’ This positivity reflects clearly in his post-WWE career progression.
His career, post his WWE tenure, is indeed inspiring. He compares, ‘My journey on the indie wrestling circuit feels akin to a cult classic. I might not be headlining the major promotions, but my true fans who follow my career, understand my style, they get me and they adore me. That’s what it really counts.’
His journey proves that the wrestling industry provides opportunities beyond the vast stages of enterprises like WWE. It’s about finding happiness in what one does, irrespective of the judgment the world hurls. Wrestling doesn’t only demand physical strength but emotional and mental resilience too, and Riddle’s story stands testament to this fact.