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As everyone knows by now, Matt Riddle has been suspended by WWE after failing a couple of drug tests in recent months (most recently in December 2022). 'The Original Bro' was removed from WWE programming due to injury and it was announced that he would be returning in approximately six weeks.
The former United States champion checked into rehab and engaged in other activities during this time. He spent some time with his family and also earned his black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. In the latest edition of the 'Wrestling Observer Newsletter', Dave Meltzer provided an important update on Matt's status: “Riddle came out of rehab and earned his black belt in BJJ last week training with Daniel Gracie.
WWE had announced that his return would take place within six weeks, so his presence at the Royal Rumble is not entirely excluded."
New details on Matt Riddle
The Royal Rumble, the first major PPV of 2023, will be held on Saturday January 28 in San Antonio and promises to give many twists.
There will be the great return of Cody Rhodes, who has been in the pits for several months due to a tear in his pectoral muscle remedied on the eve of Hell in a Cell 2022. 'The American Nightmare' is the great favorite to win the real men's brawl, while bookmakers bet on Rhea Ripley as regards the female one.
In recent days, there have even been rumors of a possible appearance by CM Punk at the Rumble. In the latest edition of 'The Wrestling Time Machine' podcast on Sportskeeda, Bill Apter reflected on CM Punk's future: “Do I consider Punk's appearance at the Royal Rumble possible? I have no idea, but it doesn't seem like a likely scenario to me.
From my point of view, it would work better if WWE announced Punk's participation in the Rumble in advance. Such an announcement would attract more attention than a surprise appearance”. A few more hours and all the puzzles will be solved.
Matt Riddle isn't the first - and will most likely not be the last - WWE Superstar to see his ring nom de plume shortened. Speaking with Cathy Kelley in a Digital Exclusive interview after RAW, Matt said he wanted another shot at the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship.
"To pull out the victory tonight against Sami Zayn, Honorary Uce, that is not an easy task," said Riddle. "That is a pretty big deal. It is almost like I should get another shot at The Tribal Chief. But he said no like he does and I get it."