Riddle’s Controversial Comments Ignite Backstage Tension
Matt Riddle, the former WWE and UFC star, has once again found himself at the center of controversy—this time for comments made about A.J. Lee, wife of WWE Superstar CM Punk. In a recent interview, Riddle attempted to downplay remarks about Lee “getting around,” stating the comments were just “word on the streets”[4]. However, the fallout has been significant, with both fans and industry veterans reacting strongly to the personal nature of the comments.
The friction between Riddle and Punk has simmered for months, but Riddle’s latest remarks—and his public insistence that he meant no harm—have escalated tensions. According to a WWE insider, “There’s a real feeling among talent that this feud is getting too personal. Everyone understands heat is part of the business, but targeting family is a line a lot of people aren’t comfortable with.”
Booker T’s Blistering Take: “Disrespecting the Business”
The story took a more heated turn weeks ago when WWE Hall of Famer Booker T publicly criticized Riddle for “disrespecting the business” and “blowing up” opportunities through his off-screen behavior[4]. Booker, known for his straight-shooting analysis, argued that Riddle’s actions risked alienating fans and colleagues alike. “It’s one thing to push the envelope,” according to Booker T in a recent episode of his “Hall of Fame” series, “but there’s a difference between being edgy and being reckless.”
This sentiment was echoed backstage, with a source close to Cody Rhodes revealing, “A lot of guys think Matt’s got the talent to be a top guy, but his willingness to go for the cheap heat is hurting his reputation. These comments about AJ Lee have made the locker room uncomfortable.”
Riddle Responds: “All in Good Fun” or Crossing the Line?
In the TMZ Inside the Ring podcast, Riddle doubled down on his criticism of CM Punk, labeling him a “creep” for allegedly lingering too much around the NXT locker room[1]. He insisted he held no ill will toward Punk but questioned his authenticity and intentions. “I have no ill will towards CM Punk. He’s a nice enough guy and you agree with it. But, I don’t, and I think he’s fake and I think he’s a creep, and that’s coming from me, and people think I’m a creep and I haven’t done anything wrong. I feel like he’s just lingering around the NXT locker room a little too much, you know?”[1]
When pressed about his remarks on A.J. Lee, Riddle defended himself by claiming it was all “just word on the streets,” implying he was repeating circulating rumors rather than making a personal attack[4]. This attempt to deflect responsibility has been met with skepticism in the wrestling community, especially given Riddle’s history of provocative comments and his desire to remain relevant after his WWE release.
The Storyline Speculation: WWE Return and Feud with Punk?
Some industry observers, including former WWE writer Vince Russo, suggest that Riddle’s controversial comments could be laying the groundwork for a potential WWE return and a high-profile feud with CM Punk[2]. Russo speculated on his Writing with Russo podcast that the ongoing public sparring might be designed to build heat for a future storyline. “We say bro, how badly do they need stars. Riddle can walk into that roster right now and be in that top five of that company without the shadow of a doubt,” Russo said. “Because of the AJ Lee comments, I would not be surprised if he is trying to shoot some kind of an angle to go back.” He even speculated that Punk himself might be aware and consenting to the online tussle as part of a bigger plan[2].
A WWE source, speaking on condition of anonymity, offered a different perspective: “Creative is always looking for real-life tension that can translate to compelling TV, but there’s also a careful line that can’t be crossed. If this is all a work, it’s certainly got everyone talking. But if it isn’t, there are going to be some serious conversations about boundaries.”
Fan and Locker Room Reaction: Polarizing Figure Continues to Divide
The reaction from fans online has been as polarized as Riddle’s in-ring persona—some applaud the “shoot” style authenticity, while others see it as a desperate grab for attention from a talent struggling to stay in the spotlight. On social media, conversations rage about whether Riddle’s comments reflect genuine animosity or are simply part of a coordinated comeback strategy.
Inside the locker room, the mood has shifted. “Matt’s always been a guy who says what he thinks, and usually, that’s refreshing,” said a performer who worked closely with Riddle. “But this feels different. It’s gone from entertaining to uncomfortable. Maybe he’s playing the game, or maybe he’s just lost sight of the line.”
The Bigger Picture: WWE’s Balancing Act Between Reality and Entertainment
The ongoing saga between Riddle, Punk, and now Lee raises larger questions about WWE’s evolving relationship with “reality” in sports entertainment. In an era where social media blur the lines between fiction and reality, feuds that spill outside the ring can generate massive engagement—but they also risk alienating both stars and fans if perceived as too cruel or personal.
According to an agent familiar with WWE talent relations, “There’s always a balancing act. You want real emotion and controversy, but you don’t want to lose locker room morale or turn off viewers who see you as crossing a line into bullying or harassment.”
What’s Next for Riddle and Punk?
As the dust settles from Riddle’s latest comments, speculation is rife about the futures of both men. Riddle has publicly stated his desire to return to WWE, specifically to finish his story with Randy Orton[5]. Meanwhile, Punk has remained largely quiet on the topic, fueling rumors that he may be biding his time for a significant response—either on or off the screen.
With rumors swirling of a possible AJ Lee return to in-ring action, the potential for a three-way feud involving Riddle, Punk, and Lee could be WWE’s next big storyline—or, if the tension is entirely real, its next big controversy.
In Conclusion:
Matt Riddle’s recent remarks about AJ Lee and CM Punk have sent shockwaves through the wrestling world, reigniting debates about what’s acceptable in the quest for television relevance and online engagement. Whether this is a carefully orchestrated work or an unfortunate personal dispute, the fallout serves as a reminder of the delicate balance WWE must strike between storytelling and real-life consequences. For now, fans, talent, and management alike are watching closely to see where the next punch—verbal or physical—will land.