During a recent virtual signing with “Signed By Superstars,” MLW’s newest signee Matt Riddle explained why he isn’t in a hurry to sign with AEW.
Riddle said, “Yeah, honestly, I feel like a lot of the talent when I got released, were going to try to do that. I wanted to think outside the box and maybe not rush right back into doing TV matches. TV is a lot different than wrestling on ppl or the Indies. There are commercials, they cut times, they change things. For me, right now, New Japan, MLW, the Indies, I can display my art and I’m not under such a crunch of time or requirement. I have a lot more freedom. TNA isn’t out of the picture either. There are certain things I wanted to do. I really wanted to work in Japan and I made that a priority.”
Riddle was released from his WWE contract in September 2023.
The Original Bro will face NJPW World TV Champion Hiroshi Tanahashi at NJPW ‘The New Beginning’ in Sapporo on February 23.
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Matt Riddle, the former WWE superstar, recently discussed his decision not to rush into signing with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) during a virtual signing with “Signed By Superstars.” Riddle explained that he wanted to think outside the box and explore different opportunities before committing to another major promotion.
Riddle highlighted the differences between wrestling on television and wrestling on the independent circuit or in Japan. He mentioned that TV matches come with commercials, time constraints, and changes to the original plan. By working with promotions like New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), Major League Wrestling (MLW), and the independent scene, Riddle can showcase his art without the pressure of strict time limits or requirements.
The former WWE star also expressed his desire to work in Japan, making it a priority for his career. Riddle’s upcoming match against NJPW World TV Champion Hiroshi Tanahashi at NJPW’s ‘The New Beginning’ in Sapporo on February 23 is a testament to his commitment to pursuing opportunities outside of the United States.
Riddle’s release from his WWE contract in September 2023 opened up new possibilities for him. Instead of immediately jumping back into the mainstream wrestling scene, he opted for a more strategic approach. This decision allows him to explore different promotions, gain more creative freedom, and expand his horizons as a professional wrestler.
While AEW is undoubtedly an attractive option for many released WWE talents, Riddle’s choice to explore other avenues demonstrates his willingness to take risks and pursue unique opportunities. He also mentioned that TNA (Total Nonstop Action Wrestling) is not out of the picture, indicating that he is open to various possibilities in the future.
For fans of Matt Riddle and professional wrestling enthusiasts in general, keeping up with all the latest news and updates is essential. Websites like eWrestlingNews.com provide a comprehensive source for all wrestling-related news. Additionally, following their social media accounts on Twitter and Facebook ensures that fans stay informed about the latest happenings in the wrestling world.
In conclusion, Matt Riddle’s decision to take his time before signing with AEW showcases his desire to explore different opportunities and work on his terms. By prioritizing his passion for wrestling in Japan and seeking creative freedom, Riddle is carving his own path in the industry. Fans can look forward to seeing him in action at NJPW’s ‘The New Beginning’ and should stay tuned to eWrestlingNews.com for all the latest updates.