Is Matt Riddle WWE Bound, Bro?

Ever since Matt Riddle stepped into the professional wrestling world in 2015, he has made an immediate impact. The 2016 DGS Main Event Rookie of the Year oozes charisma and has an MMA background, two things that just work in today’s wrestling scene. After a great 2018, is he ready to join the big leagues?

According to multiple reports, including Ringside News, Riddle and WWE have come to terms on a three-year deal. Nothing has been confirmed at this time, but there have been hints this is the case.

Many independent promotions have had to replace Riddle on their upcoming cards due to some sort of commitment issue. The events he has performed in have basically become his swan song, with standing ovations and “Thank you Riddle” chants all over. At every NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn, there is a tradition of a newly-signed wrestler sitting in the front row, basking in the new fans they will be entertaining. Will that be Riddle this upcoming weekend at the Barclays Center?

WWE isn’t the only big fish looking at Riddle. Speaking to Sports Illustrated, the 32 year old discussed his options and what he wants as he continues to grow:

“I’ve been in situations like this before. There is nothing official. I’ve talked to WWE, I’ve talked to the president of New Japan, and I am confident in where I stand in the world of professional wrestling…I need more substance, I need to grow. I’m a shark and I swam in a lot of different ponds, but I’m ready for the ocean. It just depends if I’m going to the Atlantic or the Pacific.”

A former MMA fighter, Riddle (8-3, 2 NC) became one of the fastest-rising stars in the UFC. He was released from his contract with the promotion after failing his second drug test within a year. After trying to fight in Bellator and Titan FC, Riddle retired from the sport in 2014, citing injuries and financial reasons.

After joining pro wrestling, he became a bigger name than he ever was. Riddle has wrestled the very best wrestling has to offer. He has held his own, and then some. He is a former Evolve, Progress (Atlas Champion), WWN and two-time Style Battle Champion. One of his last New York-related bouts before this weekends NXT event was a win in Progress against Mark Andrews.

Will we see The King of Bros at NXT, or has his path led to the Land of the Rising Sun? It will be an interesting few days of speculation. Like Riddle, we will have to go with the flow until the dust settles.