3 Reasons Why Matt Riddle Missed Out The Latest Episode Of WWE Raw

Professional wrestling is not just a sport; it’s a spectacle, an art, and at times, a melodrama. However, beneath the shining lights and the roaring crowds, there are real people, real situations, and real-life events that can sometimes affect the storylines and the participation of superstars. Such was the case with WWE’s star, Matt Riddle, who was notably absent from the recent episode of WWE Raw. The pro-wrestling community was rife with speculations, and here, we delve deep into the three main reasons why Riddle may have been absent.

First and foremost, Riddle’s health concerns emerged as a significant factor. Renowned wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer, from Wrestling Observer Radio, highlighted that Riddle had been grappling with health issues in the days leading up to Raw. A double ear infection coupled with bronchitis is no small ailment, especially for an athlete who is required to be in peak physical condition. The rigors of wrestling, the high-flying moves, and the physical toll it takes on a wrestler’s body means that even a minor health issue can be exacerbated if not given adequate rest. For Riddle, these were not minor by any stretch. Therefore, putting his health first and ensuring a full recovery was paramount, not just for him, but for WWE as well.

Then there was the swirl of rumors about an off-ring incident. Just a few days before the episode, news broke out about an event at JFK International Airport. Reports suggested that Riddle had been involved in some disturbance at the airport. Some even went as far as to claim that the star appeared to be “heavily intoxicated”. The pro-wrestling world knows that WWE takes such incidents seriously, especially when they involve their top-tier talents. While the fans, media, and certain sections speculated about a potential suspension or disciplinary action, it is essential to note that no conclusive evidence has emerged regarding this incident. Moreover, WWE, known for its forthrightness in such matters, has been mum, neither confirming nor denying the speculations. Without concrete information, it remains in the realm of conjecture.

The third reason, and one that the more seasoned wrestling fans might lean towards, is a creative maneuver by WWE. The world of wrestling thrives on unpredictability. Surprises, twists, and turns keep the audience on the edge of their seats. It’s not unheard of for WWE to temporarily write a superstar out of an episode or a series of episodes only to bring them back with a bang. Whether it’s to create a sense of longing among the fans, set up for a grand storyline, or simply to ensure that a wrestler gets adequate rest, these creative decisions are integral to the way professional wrestling operates. Riddle, with his unique charisma and growing popularity, is an ideal candidate for such a storyline.

Riddle tweeted on September 19, 2023, indicating that he’s “back in the lab” and gearing up to return to work. For fans, this tweet serves as a beacon of hope, suggesting that their favorite superstar has bounced back from his ailments.

In conclusion, while the world of WWE thrives on storylines, feuds, and dramatic confrontations, the real-life situations of its stars like Matt Riddle can sometimes overshadow the scripted events. Whether it was health concerns, rumored off-ring incidents, or a masterstroke of creative storytelling, Riddle’s absence from WWE Raw has undoubtedly added another layer of intrigue to his burgeoning career.