Why Matt Riddle Ended Up Making Shock TNA Debut

More information has come to light about why Matt Riddle ended up making his TNA debut and if the company want to use the ex-WWE star again.

WWE released Matt Riddle in September 2023 after a five-year run that saw him find success in the company as a United States Champion and a Raw Tag Team Champion with Randy Orton in the popular RK-Bro tag team.

The former UFC star has proven to be a controversial figure as Matt Riddle alleged that he’d been sexually harassed by an officer at the airport prior to his firing. Video later emerged of the star appearing to be drunk, as a fellow passenger said he was “loud and rude.”

The TNA Turning Point PPV featured The Hardys teaming up with Ace Austin against Kushida, Zachary Wentz, and a mystery partner because travel issues caused Trey Miguel to miss the show. TNA turned to Matt Riddle to fill Miguel’s slot and he made his TNA debut on the show.

TNA Happy With Matt Riddle’s Live Reception

Fightful Select has now reported more on how Riddle came to be part of the TNA PPV and revealed that he only found out shortly before the show that he’d be needed.

The report noted that while TNA sources admitted the situation wasn’t ideal, they weren’t too stressed as the show took place during the WrestleCade convention in the same building where there were plenty of possible replacements for Miguel on hand. TNA was happy with the live reception that Matt Riddle received but refused to commit to using him again in the future.