Matt Riddle may be returning to WWE soon.
In a report published by the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Riddle has finished his stay in rehab and received his black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The accolade was achieved with the help of Daniel Gracie, who is a former MMA fighter that has competed in Bellator on multiple occasions.
Matt Riddle Has Not Been Seen On WWE TV In 2023
The Original Bro was last seen inside a WWE ring during the December 5th broadcast of Raw. Riddle was the victim of a brutal assault by Solo Sikoa, which saw The Bloodline member deliver a Samoan Spike and a steel chair assault to the former United States Champion. The attack would necessitate a stretcher being needed to carry Riddle out of the ring.
On the following Raw, it was announced that Matt Riddle would be out for 6 weeks due to the injury. It was later reported that the reason for the attack angle was to write Riddle off for multiple weeks so that he could check into rehab.
The alleged reason for Riddle’s stint in the rehabilitation facility was due to multiple failed drug tests. Following an initial first failure, Matt Riddle was told that if he were to fail another test, the company would have no choice but to present Riddle with a “rehab or fired” situation.
Later in December, Riddle would break his silence regarding the absence on social media. The Original Bro stated at the time that he couldn’t be healthier or happier, then thanking everyone for all of their support.
The report goes on to say that the 6 week timeline does indicate that Riddle may be a surprise entrant in the 2023 Men’s Royal Rumble match. However, if the Raw star is still serving a suspension for the alleged failed drug tests, time may be added on, making the return on January 28th unlikely.