Matt Riddle’s return to WWE has been stalled due to ongoing backstage tensions with CM Punk, a conflict that continues to generate significant heat in the locker room. Despite Riddle’s proven athletic ability and popularity with fans, his outspoken criticism of Punk seems to be a key barrier to his reinstatement as of early 2024.
Riddle initially joined WWE in July 2018 and quickly climbed the ranks, capturing the United States Championship and forming the successful RK-Bro tag team alongside Randy Orton. Nevertheless, a series of personal challenges—including a suspension in late 2023—and controversial behavior backstage led to his release in September 2023. Since then, his public disparagement of CM Punk has only deepened the divide between the two, impacting WWE’s decisions regarding his future.
Insights Into Why WWE Avoids Rehiring Matt Riddle
Veteran wrestling manager Dutch Mantell weighed in on Riddle’s situation during an appearance on the Story Time podcast, suggesting that WWE’s reluctance to bring Riddle back largely stems from the desire to avoid distractions their locker room cannot handle. Mantell pointed out that since Riddle has openly criticized one of WWE’s leading figures, CM Punk, rehiring him could reignite tensions backstage that the company prefers to avoid.
This may be a reason why they hadn’t picked him up because he’s talking about one of the top guys in WWE, and CM Punk is going to read this. So if they brought him in, would there be heat between CM Punk and Matt Riddle? I’d say yes. And they don’t want to bring in something that’s going to be a distraction from the rest of their talent or that they would have to deal with, you know, behind the scenes, so and CM Punk may be a lot of those things, but as he said, he more than pays his salary by his merchandise and all this other stuff that he does.
—Dutch Mantell, Veteran Manager
WWE management appears cautious about reigniting conflicts, especially when they might disrupt the cohesion among talent. CM Punk’s value, especially through merchandise sales and drawing power, further complicates WWE’s calculus in considering Riddle’s return despite his skill and fanbase.
Matt Riddle’s Ongoing Criticism of CM Punk
Adding to the backstage friction, Matt Riddle has openly insulted CM Punk, calling him a “b***h” in interviews and on social media platforms. Riddle’s candid remarks reflect a broader sentiment shared by some of their mutual wrestling peers, illustrating the depth of animosity between them.
I have good friends on the roster that still say he’s a b***h to work with.
—Matt Riddle, Former WWE Superstar
Despite the personal grudges, Riddle acknowledges Punk’s undeniable talent and ability to generate interest, which complicates public perception but does not repair the strained relationship. This ongoing feud fuels a tense atmosphere that WWE seems reluctant to challenge by bringing Riddle back into the fold.
Other Wrestling Industry Updates
In other news, Karrion Kross is slated to return to in-ring competition this September after a hiatus, signaling a welcome comeback for fans of the former WWE star. Additionally, a former AEW World Champion has joined the commentary team for AEW Dynamite, expanding the roster of voices contributing to the broadcast.
John Cena has also teased a final match with his longtime wrestling partner during his farewell tour, adding anticipation to what could be one last memorable moment in his wrestling career. Meanwhile, the wrestling community continues to process the unexpected death of Hulk Hogan, who passed away on July 24, 2025. His daughter has reportedly received troubling information regarding the circumstances surrounding his death, and a former best friend suspects foul play, highlighting continuing controversy around Hogan’s passing.
Backstage Politics and Star Struggles Affect WWE Careers
Recently released WWE talent have voiced frustration with the company, claiming they were “very held back” in their careers due to backstage politics that favor certain individuals. One ex-WWE star revealed these internal dynamics prevent others from rising to the top, exposing the complex environment wrestlers navigate behind the scenes.
Significance of the CM Punk-Matt Riddle Feud for WWE’s Future
The highly publicized dispute between CM Punk and Matt Riddle has become a central factor influencing WWE’s roster decisions, casting a shadow over what could otherwise be a straightforward return for a talented performer. This ongoing heat not only affects the locker room environment but also poses challenges for WWE management striving to maintain harmony while balancing star power and fan expectations. Moving forward, whether WWE can reconcile these differences or continue to sideline Riddle depends on the evolving dynamics within the company and the wrestlers involved.
