Here is the latest on Matt Riddle and speculation on his future:
According to several promotions, Riddle did pull out of dates in Ireland for August 17th and 18th. The reason for this is, he is booked for Joey Janela’s Lost in New York on the 17th. While this could free him up for an appearance at NXT the night after, as of this time that is not confirmed in any way.
After being considered a detriment due to his public avocation of marijuana use, WWE recently changed its stance on Riddle and reportedly have become more interested and willing to sign him to an NXT deal. There is no confirmation at this time that Riddle is signed, has undergone any type of WWE testing, or that the two sides have even spoken about a deal.
Riddle fueled recent speculation with comments he made a few months back to VICE Sports:
“If the money was right with [WWE] and they said you have to quit smoking, I’d quit smoking. If New Japan was down, I wouldn’t bring weed to Japan—I’m not an idiot,” he says. “I know [the Japanese] drink, so I’d still enjoy myself. Honestly, right now I make six figures. I make my own merch. I’m the main or co-main event of every show I’m on. I get to be me and I get to wrestle like I want to. Can they promise me that? If not, why would I go to WWE to probably make less money and be gone more? By the time they do pick me up, if they decide to, I’ll be worth so much more.”
Also, PWG announced that they have replaced Riddle in the upcoming Battle of Los Angeles tournament:
Matthew Riddle will no longer be a participant in the 2018 Battle of Los Angeles. Trevor Lee has now entered the tournament in his place!
— PWG (@OfficialPWG) July 24, 2018
The mention of New Japan is also fitting because there is also some speculation in a report on PWInsider.com, that NJPW could also be interested in bringing in Riddle and being less strict on their view of marijuana use.
Stay with PWPNation for more as it develops.
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