Former WWE Superstar Matt Riddle is on the verge of making his highly anticipated debut in NJPW at the New Year Dash event.
The news broke after a video surfaced on social media, showcasing Riddle dressed in a traditional gi, engaging in intense training sessions. The video also captured glimpses of Riddle arriving in a luxurious car, sporting his signature flip-flops. Towards the end of the video, Riddle issued a challenge to NJPW icon Hiroshi Tanahashi, stating:
Konichiwa New Japan! Let me introduce myself. My name is Matthew Riddle, the King of Bros. And I’ve got my sights set on Tanahashi-san, the Ace of New Japan. I’ll see you soon, bro.
Although Riddle didn’t specify a particular date for the match, the official NJPW Global account confirmed that the former WWE star had challenged Tanahashi to a New Year Dash event showdown. This news has generated tremendous excitement among both NJPW and WWE fans, who are eager to witness Riddle’s transition to the Japanese wrestling scene.
Riddle’s departure from WWE occurred in September 2023, during the initial wave of talent releases following the establishment of TKO Group Holdings. The decision to release Riddle was met with surprise and disappointment, as he had achieved considerable success during his tenure with the company. As a former U.S. Champion, Raw Tag Team Champion, and NXT Tag Team Champion, Riddle had become a prominent figure in the industry.
Matt Riddle has issued a huge challenge to Hiroshi Tanahashi at New Year Dash!
WATCH NOW: https://t.co/zzVGHtB6qA#njpw#njdashpic.twitter.com/22X8x61ZBI
— NJPW Global (@njpwglobal) January 5, 2024
Which Other Promotion Is Matt Riddle Set To Work For Since Leaving WWE?
Since leaving WWE Matt Riddle was announced to be joining MLW. Riddle is set to face Jacob Fatu on January 6th. Prior to the appearance, Matt Riddle commented on his WWE release.