In a recent episode of his 1 of a Kind podcast, WWE Hall of Famer Rob Van Dam (RVD) addressed a question from a fan regarding his thoughts on Matt Riddle’s wrestling style. The fan asked if Riddle was a good “RVD ripoff,” which sparked a response from RVD that cleared up any misconceptions about the comparison.
For those who may be unfamiliar, Matt Riddle has been a part of the WWE since 2018, and his in-ring style has drawn comparisons to that of RVD. Both wrestlers are known for their high-flying abilities, athleticism, and unique blend of technical grappling and high-impact moves. RVD, who has been active in the wrestling industry since the late 1990s, has earned a reputation as one of the most versatile and exciting performers in the business.
RVD’s background is well-documented. Born on December 18, 1972, in Battle Creek, Michigan, RVD began his wrestling career in the early 1990s, competing in various regional promotions before joining the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), now known as the WWE, in 1997. During his time in the WWF, RVD became a key player in the company’s Attitude Era, winning the WWF Championship on two separate occasions and earning a reputation as a fan favorite.
As for Matt Riddle, he made his professional wrestling debut in 2015, competing in various independent promotions before joining Impact Wrestling in 2017. Riddle’s in-ring style, which blends elements of submission grappling and high-flying action, quickly caught the attention of WWE officials, who signed him to a contract in 2018. Since joining the WWE, Riddle has established himself as a top-tier performer, winning the WWE United Kingdom Championship and earning a spot on the company’s main roster.
The question of whether Riddle is a “RVD ripoff” has been a topic of debate among wrestling fans for some time. While some have argued that Riddle’s style is too similar to RVD’s, others have pointed out that both wrestlers have their own unique characteristics and approaches to the sport. In his response to the fan’s question, RVD acknowledged that Riddle’s style has been influenced by his own, but he did not see it as a negative thing.
“I think it’s great that Matt Riddle has taken some of the things that I’ve done and made them his own,” RVD said. “I’m flattered that he’s taken some of the things that I’ve done and tried to incorporate them into his own style. I think it’s a testament to the fact that I’ve been doing this for a long time and I’ve been able to leave a mark on the business.”
RVD’s response has been met with widespread approval from fans and fellow wrestlers alike. Many have praised RVD for his humility and willingness to acknowledge the influence that younger wrestlers may have taken from his style. Others have noted that Riddle’s unique blend of technical grappling and high-flying action has helped to establish him as a top-tier performer in his own right.
In terms of future WWE implications, RVD’s response has helped to put the comparison between himself and Riddle into perspective. Rather than seeing Riddle as a “RVD ripoff,” fans and officials alike can now appreciate the fact that Riddle has taken elements of RVD’s style and made them his own. This could lead to an increased appreciation for Riddle’s unique abilities and a recognition of the fact that he is more than just a copycat of RVD.
In conclusion, RVD’s response to the fan’s question has helped to put the comparison between himself and Riddle into perspective. Rather than seeing Riddle as a “RVD ripoff,” fans and officials alike can now appreciate the fact that Riddle has taken elements of RVD’s style and made them his own. This could lead to an increased appreciation for Riddle’s unique abilities and a recognition of the fact that he is more than just a copycat of RVD.
FAQ
- Q: Is Matt Riddle a “RVD ripoff”?
A: No, according to RVD, Riddle is not a “RVD ripoff.” While Riddle’s style has been influenced by RVD’s, he has made it his own. - Q: Has RVD taken issue with Riddle’s style in the past?
A: No, RVD has not taken issue with Riddle’s style in the past. In fact, he has praised Riddle for his unique blend of technical grappling and high-flying action. - Q: What does this mean for Matt Riddle’s career in the WWE?
A: This means that Riddle can now be appreciated for his unique abilities and style, rather than being seen as a copycat of RVD. This could lead to an increased appreciation for his performances and a recognition of his status as a top-tier wrestler. - Q: Will this affect RVD’s legacy in the WWE?
A: No, this will not affect RVD’s legacy in the WWE. In fact, RVD’s response has helped to cement his status as a respected and influential wrestler, who has left a lasting impact on the business.