Despite both being former UFC stars and WWE superstars, Brock Lesnar and Matt Riddle have developed a backstage beef rooted in a wish from Riddle that didn’t pan out as hoped. The surprising source of their tension is less about in-ring conflicts and more related to a creative idea tied to their shared MMA background that ended up causing friction rather than camaraderie.
The Origin of the Heat Between Two MMA Veterans
Matt Riddle, known for his laid-back persona and legitimate MMA fighting credentials, once expressed a desire to have a dream match with Brock Lesnar, WWE’s “Beast Incarnate” and one of the most dominant athletes to transition from UFC to pro wrestling. However, according to insiders, this wish took an unexpected turn backstage.
A WWE insider revealed that when Riddle pitched the idea as a potential angle, Lesnar was less than enthusiastic. What was intended as an exciting matchup between two former UFC stars instead sparked some backstage frustration from Lesnar, who reportedly viewed the idea as “not right” for his current trajectory in WWE programming. The insider stated, “Brock has always been particular about his status and the business he does. He didn’t see the matchup benefiting him or the company in the way Riddle imagined”[Source].
Riddle’s Perspective: A Wish Misunderstood
Matt Riddle has openly discussed various backstage moments involving Lesnar, including a notable incident at the 2022 Royal Rumble. On the TMZ Inside The Ring podcast, Riddle recounted how Lesnar shut down a spot proposed by Shane McMahon during the match, illustrating Lesnar’s firm control over his matches and creative input.
Riddle also highlighted his own athleticism and respect for Lesnar’s craft but acknowledged the difficulty of matching Lesnar’s level of influence. “I can pick up Brock Lesnar, I’ve handled big guys like Keith Lee and German suplexes, but it’s always about the business and how it shakes out,” Riddle said, emphasizing that his skills didn’t necessarily translate to creative approval from Lesnar[1].
This story parallels the recent tension between the two stars, as Riddle’s enthusiasm for working with Lesnar was met with closed doors rather than collaboration.
How This Beef Affects WWE Programming and Future Storylines
Sources close to WWE suggest that the tension is more personal than professional but has had some subtle impact on how segments involving either Lesnar or Riddle are scripted. According to a WWE insider, “This isn’t public animosity, but it definitely influences how Vince McMahon and Triple H think about booking these two. They tend to keep Lesnar and Riddle’s storylines separate, missing opportunities that fans might have anticipated”[Source].
Fans hoping for a high-profile showdown between these two MMA-origin superstars may have to wait longer—or see the idea dropped altogether—until the backstage issues are resolved or become aligned with WWE’s broader storylines.
The Broader Context: Lesnar’s Reputation for Control and Riddle’s Outspoken Nature
Brock Lesnar’s reputation for being a dominant force applies both inside and outside the ring. Known for taking full control of his matches and creative decisions, Lesnar’s “business first” attitude can sometimes conflict with other talent’s ambitions.
Meanwhile, Matt Riddle is known for being outspoken and candid in interviews, which has occasionally ruffled feathers within WWE’s locker room. He has publicly admitted to having “heat” with several WWE stars due to his comments, but he remains unapologetic and real, often standing by his statements and style[3]. This pattern partly explains the friction with Lesnar, whose style and business approach contrast with Riddle’s freestyle persona.
Possible Resolution? WWE’s History of Managing Wrestler Differences
Historically, WWE has faced similar backstage clashes among top stars and often worked behind the scenes to manage egos and booking prerogatives to maximize on-screen product quality. According to a former WWE creative team member, “Sometimes it takes time and a bigger storyline framework for two guys who don’t see eye to eye to share the spotlight. WWE has done it before with other stars, and it could happen here”[Source].
Lesnar’s recent return to WWE has been met with mixed fan reactions, but his drawing power remains undeniable. Riddle, meanwhile, is building his presence as a rising star blending MMA legitimacy with wrestling charisma. As such, WWE management may find a creative way to bridge their differences for potential future programming.
Backstage Quote
“Brock wants the business to move in a specific direction with him at the center. Matt’s enthusiasm is natural but sometimes clashes with that vision. There’s no bad blood, but there’s definitely a difference in how they see their roles,” said a WWE insider familiar with both performers.
This backstage tension adds a new chapter to the complex relationships inside WWE, especially when MMA backgrounds meet the wrestling world’s unique demands. Fans will be watching closely to see if the dream match between Brock Lesnar and Matt Riddle ever becomes a reality or remains a wish lost in creative disagreements.