Riddle’s Candid Comments Draw Laughs—and Controversy
Matt Riddle remains one of professional wrestling’s most unpredictable personalities—in and out of the ring. During a recent appearance on The Stunner podcast, the former WWE Superstar made waves with a series of blunt, unfiltered remarks about the unintended consequences of his time in the spotlight. Holding nothing back, Riddle claimed that his TV fame and significant earnings have made him a prime target for fraudulent paternity claims[5].
“The Original Bro’s” candid revelation caught fans off guard, with the live audience bursting into laughter as he detailed how, since his rise to WWE stardom, he’s faced multiple claims from women alleging he fathered their children. Riddle assured listeners that none of the claims have ever been substantiated, but the frequency and audacity of the allegations have left him exasperated—and prompted him to speak out.
According to a WWE insider, “Riddle’s always been one to speak his mind, but these recent comments have sparked a lot of backstage chatter. It’s a wild story, but given his public persona and social media presence, it doesn’t surprise me that he’s dealing with this kind of stuff.” The source added that Riddle’s situation is not entirely uncommon in the wrestling world, where fame and financial success can sometimes attract opportunists.
The Price of Fame in Pro Wrestling
Riddle’s comments shine a spotlight on a seldom-discussed aspect of life as a professional wrestler: the personal and legal headaches that often accompany public exposure. With WWE’s global platform, stars like Riddle enjoy a level of recognition—and vulnerability—that few other careers provide.
“People see you on TV, follow you on Instagram, and think they have a connection with you,” Riddle reportedly told the podcast. “I get messages every day from people saying they know me, or their cousin knows me, or we hung out once. Then, out of nowhere, someone claims I’m the father of their kid. It’s wild, bro.”
Several wrestlers, especially men, have privately discussed similar experiences, but few air them publicly for fear of inspiring even more false claims. Riddle, however, has never been one to filter his thoughts—something fans simultaneously love and lament.
Legal and Social Implications
Riddle’s situation raises important questions about how celebrity status can be weaponized. False paternity claims are not just a nuisance; they can have serious legal and financial implications. Wrestlers and other entertainers facing similar allegations often need to hire legal counsel, undergo DNA testing, and deal with unwelcome media scrutiny.
A backstage WWE source added, “Management is aware of how this stuff can affect their talent, but there’s only so much they can do. It’s on the individual to protect themselves legally and personally, which is tough when you’re traveling 300 days a year and always in the public eye.”
Riddle’s willingness to talk openly about these issues is both refreshing and cautionary. While some fans may dismiss his remarks as bravado, industry experts caution that false claims of this nature can damage reputations, invite professional setbacks, and cause significant emotional distress—even if the accusations are unfounded.
Riddle’s Unique Path to Stardom
To fully appreciate Riddle’s perspective, it’s important to understand his journey within the wrestling world. Before joining WWE, he was a successful UFC fighter, known for his formidable grappling skills and unapologetic demeanor. His transition to professional wrestling was seamless, with Riddle quickly becoming a fan favorite thanks to his laid-back “bro” persona and in-ring athleticism.
However, his outspoken nature has also landed him in hot water. In late 2023, WWE released Riddle following a controversial incident at an airport, capping a tumultuous tenure that saw him both beloved and scrutinized by fans and management alike[4]. Despite the split, Riddle has maintained his spot in the wrestling headlines—both for his performances on the independent scene and for his unfiltered takes on social media and podcasts[4].
A Pattern of Controversy and Resilience
Matt Riddle’s career has been punctuated by both success and controversy, a combination his fans have come to expect. In August 2025, he faced backlash after allegedly no-showing a charity wrestling event, sparking a heated online exchange with the event’s promoter[1][2]. While both parties traded accusations, the episode was just the latest in a series of public disputes that have kept Riddle’s name buzzing in the wrestling world[1][2].
Most recently, Riddle was pulled from a pop culture convention appearance in the wake of inflammatory online comments, underscoring how wrestlers’ off-screen behavior can have real-world consequences for their bookings and reputations[3]. Whether these incidents are a result of Riddle’s honesty or impulsiveness—or a blend of both—depends on who you ask.
Yet, through it all, Riddle’s popularity endures. His ability to remain relevant, despite setbacks and controversies, speaks to his genuine connection with fans and his undeniable skill inside the squared circle.
What’s Next for Riddle?
With no sign of slowing down, Matt Riddle continues to carve out a unique niche in professional wrestling. While WWE may be in his rearview mirror, independent promotions and international tours are keeping him in the spotlight. His willingness to address uncomfortable topics—such as false paternity claims—sets him apart from peers who might shy away from such discussions.
Industry observers suggest that Riddle’s openness could encourage other wrestlers to speak up about similar issues, potentially leading to broader conversations about privacy, legal protections, and the challenges of fame in the modern wrestling landscape.
“He’s unapologetically himself, for better or worse,” said a wrestling promoter familiar with Riddle’s work. “In this business, that’s rare. Most guys try to play it safe, but Riddle just keeps it real. Sometimes it bites him, but the fans respect it.”
Final Thoughts
Matt Riddle’s recent comments about being targeted by false paternity claims due to his TV fame and earnings offer a raw look at the less glamorous side of wrestling stardom. Whether you’re a Riddle fan or a critic, his honesty is a reminder that behind the larger-than-life characters and scripted drama, real-life issues—sometimes bizarre, sometimes serious—can impact even the toughest competitors.
As Riddle continues to navigate the highs and lows of his post-WWE career, one thing is certain: “The Original Bro” will keep talking, keep wrestling, and keep fans—and critics—on their toes.
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Matt Riddle reveals the dark side of wrestling fame, detailing how his TV success and earnings have made him a target for fake paternity claims. Get the full story, exclusive backstage insights, and what it means for the wrestling industry.