In recent discussions, it has emerged that Jake Paul is exploring the possibility of a face-off with the former WWE luminary Matt Riddle.
Over the past few years, Jake Paul has been carving his niche in the boxing realm. He has often competed against contenders relatively new to the sport. With Tommy Fury being the lone exception (and the cause of his lone defeat), Jake Paul has faced mostly ex-MMA icons.
He has victories against Nate Diaz, Ben Askren, and Tyron Woodley. However, he hasn’t competed since the Diaz victory.
Speculations abound regarding Paul’s next move. There’s talk of a potential rematch with Tommy Fury, contingent on the British reality TV star’s win over KSI on October 14. Moreover, whispers have circulated that Paul might finally face off against KSI himself.
But a fresh contender has entered the fray in the form of the ex-WWE sensation Matt Riddle.
WWE star Matt Riddle boasts two high school wrestling victories over UFC legend Jon Jones and expressed interest in a future challenge.
Riddle also found himself embroiled in a controversy at JFK Airport in September, where the former United States and tag team champion claimed he was SA-ed by an officer. Riddle was alleged to be “heavily” under the influence during the incident.
According to the insights shared by Dave Meltzer in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, there have been preliminary discussions surrounding a potential face-off between Riddle and Paul. It remains uncertain whether this would take the form of a boxing event or a mixed martial arts showdown.
Paul has inked a deal with the PFL to make his MMA debut in the Super Fights division. He’s promised that his debut will be against a notable figure in the combat sports world.
Despite his decade-long focus on professional wrestling, Riddle boasts a background in MMA. He previously competed under the UFC banner, concluding his stint with an impressive 8-3-0 record.
Riddle’s tenure with the WWE came to an end following a prolonged hiatus. He had been absent from WWE programming due to off-ring controversies.
With a three-month non-compete clause from his WWE contract extending until the close of 2023, it is likely that Riddle will need to bide his time before stepping into the ring with Jake. The eventual showdown remains shrouded in uncertainty.