Born on January 14, 1986, Matthew Fredrick Riddle is an American professional wrestler, mixed martial artist, and retired professional kickboxer. He is currently signed to WWE, performing on the Raw brand, where he has gained significant popularity through his impressive in-ring skills and charismatic personality.
Riddle began his professional combat sports career as a kickboxer, fighting in various organizations such as Bellator and Titan FC. He then transitioned into mixed martial arts, fighting for the UFC and other notable promotions. Riddle gained a reputation for his ground game, finishing several of his opponents via submission holds.
In 2015, Riddle decided to retire from mixed martial arts and pursue a career in professional wrestling. He began his training at the Monster Factory, a renowned wrestling school in New Jersey, where he quickly earned a reputation as a hard worker and a quick learner.
Riddle made his professional wrestling debut in 2015, wrestling for various independent promotions across the United States. He quickly gained a reputation for his unique wrestling style, which combines his MMA background with high-flying moves and technical wrestling abilities.
In 2018, Riddle signed with WWE, joining the company’s developmental brand, NXT. He made his NXT debut in August 2018, defeating Luke Menzies in his first match. Riddle’s star began to shine brighter in NXT after he defeated Kassius Ohno in a highly acclaimed match at NXT TakeOver: Phoenix.
Since then, Riddle has continued to impress in NXT, with notable victories over wrestlers such as Adam Cole, Roderick Strong, and Killian Dain. His impressive in-ring skills, combined with his laid-back surfer vibe and infectious personality, have made him a fan favorite among WWE fans.
In 2020, Riddle was drafted to the Raw brand as part of the WWE’s annual draft. He made his Raw debut in May of that year, defeating Intercontinental Champion AJ Styles in a non-title match. Riddle’s victory over Styles was a significant accomplishment, as Styles is widely regarded as one of the best wrestlers of his generation.
Riddle’s momentum has continued on Raw, with notable victories over wrestlers such as Sheamus and Bobby Lashley. He is currently one of the top wrestlers on the Raw roster, with many fans and experts predicting that he will soon become a world champion in WWE.
In addition to his impressive in-ring skills, Riddle has also gained a reputation for his memorable promos and interviews. He often speaks candidly about his life and his wrestling journey, endearing himself to fans who appreciate his realness and honesty.
Riddle is also known for his love of the UFC and MMA, often incorporating MMA moves into his wrestling matches. He has even expressed interest in one day returning to the UFC, though he has stated that his current focus is on his WWE career.
In conclusion, Matt Riddle is a rising star in WWE, with an impressive combat sports background and a unique wrestling style that has won over fans around the world. He is one of the most exciting wrestlers to watch in WWE today, and his future in the company looks bright. Fans can expect to see more great things from Riddle in the years to come.