In a disappointing development for AEW and TNA fans, former WWE Superstar Matt Riddle has decided to sign with MLW. Fans expected the former United States Champion to sign with a top wrestling promotion in the United States after his WWE release, but he has settled for MLW.
AEW and TNA are in need of a well-known star, who can help them create a brand. Someone like Matt Riddle, who was extremely popular during his WWE run and has an MMA background as well, could have been helpful to both the companies. However, neither of them showed interest in him.
Instead, MLW and Riddle have joined hands now, and fans can see The Original Bro in MLW matches soon. He still has one day left under his no compete WWE clause, but Riddle has signed with a new promotion. Here’s how fans reacted to the news.
Matt Riddle has officially signed with MLW
Thoughts? pic.twitter.com/af5MIk5m1j
— Julian Weeks (@JulianWks) December 21, 2023
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Matt Riddle joins #MLW. pic.twitter.com/3fAFTYYHHs
— MLW (@MLW) December 21, 2023
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— WrestleFeed (@WrestleFeedApp) December 21, 2023
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Honestly, did not see that coming. Really thought he would go to TNA.
— Joseph “The Demon “Albanese (@DemonEvilMuscle) December 21, 2023
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MLW feels grittier than some of the alternatives – something that I think will bode well for Riddle's style and how he inevitably plans to reinvent himself.
I'm guessing it also gives him the flexibility to explore other ventures. He's already alluded to an MMA return.
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— Shane Skwarek (@sfxdotcom) December 21, 2023
even TNA would’ve been better
— DUFFY ♒️ (@DuffyBag5) December 21, 2023
Vs Jacob Fatu?! Someone’s gonna die pic.twitter.com/Vpkjqp7pfh
— A Kenny For Your Thoughts (@_kennythoughts) December 21, 2023
Mlw is growing!
— BEARS OWN VIKINGS (@IshJitSu) December 21, 2023
Imagine going to the minor leagues
— IMPACTER (@ImpacThe) December 21, 2023
A good signing if Riddle decides not to be garbage.
— Arthur “Fiend2Society” (@Fiend2Society) December 21, 2023
Why did WWE fire Matt Riddle?
Many members of the WWE Universe were shocked to see Riddle being released from the company. He was one of the most-loved members of the main roster. Also, he had a great run as a babyface, including feuds against The Bloodline and Seth Rollins. Still, WWE let him go because of his off-ring issues.
The former United States Champion was a part of many unnecessary controversies, including some serious allegations and some failed tests. WWE continued working with him for some time, but eventually they gave up as well and removed him from the company.
Riddle could have become a major player if he signed with AEW or TNA. Perhaps, the two companies may not have shown interest in him because of his controversies as well. Nevertheless, fans will hope that the former MMA star can reinvent his game in MLW and return to mainstream wrestling as a grander star.
