In the fast-paced world of professional wrestling, departures from WWE are not uncommon, but Matt Riddle’s exit earlier this month has left fans and industry insiders intrigued and searching for answers. While the departure of a superstar can often be attributed to various factors, it appears that backstage heat and a particular off-script segment played a significant role in Riddle’s WWE departure.
The shockwaves of Riddle’s release reverberated throughout the wrestling community. In the wake of his departure, Fightful Select reported a revealing statement from a WWE higher-up. The statement noted that Riddle had “burned through too many chances” during his tenure with the company. This statement hints at a troubled history between the star and WWE management, shedding light on the true reasons behind his exit.
The latest edition of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, authored by the respected Dave Meltzer, provides an even deeper insight into the backstage heat surrounding Riddle’s departure. According to Meltzer’s report, a specific WWE TV interview triggered this heat. In this interview, Riddle went off script to talk about his former tag team partner, Randy Orton.
Meltzer’s report reads:
- Advertisement -
“Riddle also had heat with management at one point right after that for going off the script and putting over Orton on a live television interview when talking about how much pain Orton was in during the latter stages of their team and before the injury angle was shot.
“While praised for the promo going behind the scenes and being real, it was not what was scripted for him.”
This revelation sheds light on the delicate balance that WWE superstars often have to navigate. Going off-script can lead to real, raw moments that connect with the audience, but it can also create tension behind the scenes, as was the case with Riddle.
Meanwhile, Randy Orton, Riddle’s former tag team partner, has been conspicuously absent from WWE television since May 2022. The reason for his extended hiatus has been a serious back injury. While this injury kept “The Viper” away from the squared circle, recent developments have fueled speculation about his impending return.
Rumors have been swirling that Orton might be preparing for a WWE comeback, with reports of his presence at the WWE Performance Center. These developments, combined with public sightings of Orton, have reignited anticipation among fans for the return of one of WWE’s most iconic and respected superstars.
- Advertisement -
As the wrestling world continues to buzz with excitement and speculation, the circumstances surrounding Matt Riddle’s WWE departure and the potential return of Randy Orton remain a hot topic among fans and industry insiders, underscoring the ever-evolving dynamics in the world of sports entertainment.