Matt Riddle’s tenure in WWE concluded in September 2023 amid controversies, including a suspension related to wellness policy violations and a widely publicized off-screen incident. Following his release, Riddle has revitalized his wrestling career primarily in Major League Wrestling (MLW), where he signed an exclusive deal in late 2024 and captured the MLW World Heavyweight Championship in 2025[1][5]. His MLW success reflects his enduring popularity and skill, keeping him relevant in the competitive pro-wrestling landscape.

Riddle’s WWE career was marked by significant achievements, including two reigns as WWE Raw Tag Team Champion alongside Randy Orton as part of the popular tag team RK-Bro, an NXT Tag Team Championship, and a WWE United States Championship reign. His charismatic style and MMA background made him a unique star on WWE programming from his 2018 debut until his departure[3][2].

Despite working with MLW and other global promotions—such as Lucha Libre AAA and NJPW—sources indicate that Riddle’s relationship with WWE might not be entirely severed. A WWE insider told WrestlingINC that WWE often remains open to re-signing talent if contractual conditions suit both sides, especially for a talent as marketable as Riddle. “He brings a unique presence and fan base,” the insider remarked, “and money talks in this business”[1].

Riddle himself has previously acknowledged an “extremely high” chance of returning to WWE but also expressed openness to staying away if the opportunity never arises. In a WrestleTalk interview, he stated, “I think the longer I’m away, the harder I work, and the more I do, the more likely I could come back. But I’ll also say this, if I never go back ever again, and they never talk to me again, I’ll be ok with that”[2].

A backstage source close to Riddle revealed to Fightful that the former “King of Bros” is focused on maintaining his momentum in MLW but remains open to lucrative WWE offers, emphasizing the importance of creative freedom and respectful treatment. This indicates that any eventual WWE return could be contingent not just on financial terms, but also on the company’s willingness to accommodate his preferences and past experiences[1].

WWE itself has demonstrated a pattern of welcoming back former stars after time away, given the compelling financial and narrative incentives. The company has previously re-signed high-profile talents following their departures or contract disputes, often revitalizing their characters or incorporating them into new storylines that leverage their recognizable appeal.

With Matt Riddle now excelling as MLW World Heavyweight Champion and maintaining a strong fan following worldwide, WWE faces a compelling choice. Should they aim to boost their roster star power and tap into Riddle’s established fanbase, re-signing him could prove advantageous. However, WWE’s decision-makers must weigh this against prior controversies and locker room dynamics.

For fans and industry observers, RVD’s comments add fuel to ongoing speculation about Riddle’s WWE future and highlight how pragmatic considerations frequently override past conflicts in wrestling business decisions. As of now, no official negotiations have been confirmed publicly.

In summary, while Matt Riddle is thriving post-WWE with MLW—holding the World Heavyweight Title and competing internationally—Rob Van Dam’s remarks underscore the realistic possibility of his WWE return if both parties find mutually beneficial financial and creative terms. Sources close to the situation emphasize that while money remains a pivotal factor, Riddle’s openness and WWE’s willingness to engage will ultimately determine whether “The Original Bro” makes his way back to the WWE ring[1][2][5].