Rob Van Dam (RVD), WWE Hall of Famer and legendary performer, has sparked intense debate after publicly standing by Matt Riddle amid a swirling controversy over the former WWE star’s no-show at a UK charity wrestling event. Despite facing significant criticism from fans and industry observers, RVD explained why he feels compelled to support Riddle, shedding light on loyalty, misunderstanding, and the difficulties of navigating public scrutiny in today’s wrestling world.
The Origins of the Controversy: Matt Riddle’s Charity Event No-Show
The trouble began when Matt Riddle was booked to face Simon Miller at Global Wrestling Kingdom’s (GWK) inaugural show in Barnsley, England, on August 31, 2025. This event was especially significant, designed to raise funds for charities aiding survivors of domestic abuse and homeless veterans. However, Riddle never made the trip to the UK, resulting in an abrupt and embarrassing no-show that drew immediate repercussions and public outrage.
Riddle responded explosively with videos containing heated language and aggressive insults toward those believing he had wronged the charity and fans. Particularly incendiary were his derogatory remarks dismissing the Me Too movement, which reignited a firestorm of criticism. His public backlash was swift: SiouxperCon promptly canceled his scheduled appearance, citing his offensive public comments on sensitive subjects like sexual assault and domestic violence[1][4].
RVD’s Bold Public Defense
Against this backdrop, Rob Van Dam publicly stepped forward on social media, succinctly declaring, “So far, I got Matt Riddle’s back” in a tweet dated September 4, 2025[1]. This show of support took many by surprise given the severity of the backlash against Riddle, prompting a divided reaction among fans and insiders alike.
The siding with Riddle seems rooted in RVD’s long-standing values of loyalty and mentorship within the wrestling community. Sources close to WWE reported, “RVD sees Matt not just as a former WWE Superstar but as someone struggling with the pressures and pitfalls that come from being in the spotlight, especially when personal issues get magnified”[3].
Why RVD Remains Loyal: Context and Compassion
In interviews and wrestling circles, RVD has articulated that his defense of Matt Riddle is less about the specifics of the charity event incident and more about understanding the human behind the public persona. One WWE insider attributed RVD’s position to his awareness of the mistakes wrestlers often make off-camera and the importance of support during turbulent moments.
“He’s not condoning the no-show or the harsh comments, but Rob fundamentally believes in standing by your own when they’re under fire, especially from an industry that can be brutally unforgiving,” the insider revealed[3].
Moreover, RVD highlighted how the climate around sensitive social issues sometimes fuels polarized discourse that leaves little room for nuance or redemption. In this light, his backing reflects a call for measured understanding rather than blanket condemnation.
Fan and Industry Reaction to RVD’s Stand
The reaction to RVD’s defense has been strikingly mixed, with vocal backlash and trolling online. A significant faction of fans expressed disappointment and disbelief, particularly given Riddle’s inflammatory remarks on sexual assault and the Me Too movement. In a Twitter poll RVD posted about an unrelated livestream, nearly 70% of respondents tuned out or fired back harsh criticism, illustrating how RVD’s support has affected his standing with some fans[2][5].
While some commentators have praised RVD for demonstrating personal integrity and loyalty, others feel this stance undermines important social accountability in wrestling’s public discourse.
Broader Implications for WWE and Wrestling Culture
This episode underscores the tension professional wrestlers face balancing personal expression, public expectation, and career ramifications in the social media era. As Matt Riddle’s controversy shows, reputations can be rapidly damaged and rehabilitated in the court of public opinion.
According to a source familiar with WWE backstage dynamics, “Support like RVD’s can sometimes be a double-edged sword — offering a lifeline to wrestlers in distress but also igniting further controversy amid changing cultural expectations for behavior and responsibility”[3].
What Lies Ahead for Riddle and RVD?
Matt Riddle’s future bookings have notably diminished, with some independent promotions and events distancing themselves due to his public statements and actions. Meanwhile, Rob Van Dam continues to engage with fans and industry figures, albeit with increased criticism scrutinizing his loyal gestures.
Industry insiders suggest both men are navigating a challenging path as they reckon with consequences and redemption within wrestling’s unique blend of entertainment, athleticism, and fan interaction.
Backstage Quote:
“Rob sees the bigger picture — he’s watched many careers rise and fall and believes in giving people a chance to learn and grow without immediate exile. It’s a stance that’s controversial but deeply part of his wrestling philosophy,” a WWE veteran close to RVD shared.
Rob Van Dam’s unwavering defense of Matt Riddle amid a firestorm of backlash highlights the complex interplay of loyalty, accountability, and public perception within modern wrestling—a debate that continues to evolve as the industry grapples with its cultural impact.