Matt Riddle remains at the center of controversy due to his recent harsh comments about AJ Lee and CM Punk, just as AJ Lee prepares for a WWE return. These remarks have intensified concerns about Riddle’s future in professional wrestling, particularly regarding any hopes of CM Punk making a comeback.
Matt Riddle’s Latest Controversy and Criticism
Former WWE star Matt Riddle has sparked backlash after reportedly missing a charity event because of logistical problems, drawing criticism from the Global Wrestling Kingdom organization. Prior to AJ Lee’s WWE return, Riddle publicly attacked both Lee and her husband, CM Punk, calling Punk a “fake” and a “creep.”
During an interview with TMZ, Riddle was dismissive of Punk’s presence around WWE’s NXT locker room, saying,
“I don’t know. I feel like he’s just lingering around the NXT locker room a little too much.”
Booker T Responds to Matt Riddle’s Remarks
WWE Hall of Famer Booker T took to his Hall of Fame podcast to address Riddle’s statements, expressing that such behavior has likely destroyed any chance for Riddle to return to a major wrestling promotion.
Man, it’s one thing to burn bridges, but when you blow out the bridge like that… that’s another story,
Booker T said.
Booker T also praised CM Punk’s lasting impact on fans despite stepping away from wrestling, acknowledging that Punk’s influence remains significant.
He noted,
“Also, CM Punk has done a heck of a job creating the aura that he has in this business. For a guy like CM Punk to walk away… and the fans still kept his name alive… you don’t hate, you congratulate.”
Additionally, Booker aligned Riddle with others in wrestling he no longer respects due to their comments:
[Riddle]’s joined a list to me—with him, Ryback, and to be honest, Swerve Strickland—people I don’t have any respect for after hearing some of the comments they’ve made.
Implications for Matt Riddle’s Wrestling Career
Booker T emphasized he never held any personal issues with Riddle but criticized him for lacking respect toward the wrestling business, which he believes is crucial to advancing in the industry. According to Booker, Riddle has not only burned bridges but has effectively destroyed them for his future prospects.
He predicted that Matt Riddle’s path back to the “big leagues” is all but closed due to his recent actions and attitude.
What This Means for the CM Punk Controversy and Wrestling Scene
The ongoing CM Punk controversy Matt Riddle remarks continue to stir divisions among wrestling professionals and fans. Booker T’s reaction highlights the tension surrounding Riddle’s behavior and how it clashes with the respect many feel CM Punk commands.
Given the turbulence created by these exchanges, the wrestling community is likely watching closely to see if Riddle can repair his reputation or if his choices will permanently limit his opportunities. Meanwhile, CM Punk’s legacy appears secure, as support remains strong despite these disputes.
