WWE Had Big Plans For Drew McIntyre And Matt Riddle

In the world of professional wrestling, plans can change as quickly as a well-executed finishing move. One such intriguing twist in the world of WWE involved the potential pairing of two immensely talented superstars, Drew McIntyre and Matt Riddle, as a tag team on the Raw brand. 

While WWE has been known for its last-minute surprises and storyline adjustments, this particular duo had fans buzzing with excitement before it could even materialize. However, the dreams of “McRiddle,” as the potential tag team was affectionately dubbed, were dashed before they could take center stage.

The Riddle Incident

Before we delve into the tantalizing possibilities of the Drew McIntyre and Matt Riddle tag team, we must address the incident that played a key role in changing WWE’s plans. On September 9, just days before Riddle’s unexpected release from the company, an incident unfolded at JFK Airport that would send shockwaves through the wrestling world.

Matt Riddle found himself at the center of a controversial situation at the airport, where he accused a Port Authority police officer of sexual assault. The incident quickly gained media attention, and an ongoing investigation was launched to determine the facts surrounding the case. To add complexity to the matter, footage emerged of Riddle appearing to be intoxicated while awaiting his flight, further fueling the controversy.

The Abandoned Ambitions

Amidst the turbulence surrounding Matt Riddle’s airport incident, WWE had grand ambitions for the “Original Bro” and Drew McIntyre on Monday Night Raw. These plans were far from ordinary, as evidenced by the fact that WWE had already designed various merchandise items featuring the intriguing team name, “McRiddle.” This tag team concept showcased WWE’s willingness to explore uncharted waters and create unique pairings that could have reinvigorated the tag team division.

Drew McIntyre, known for his dominating presence and undeniable charisma, had already solidified himself as a top-tier WWE superstar. His impressive in-ring skills, coupled with his compelling character work, made him a fan favorite and a perennial championship contender. McIntyre’s journey from a promising rookie to a two-time WWE Champion had captivated audiences worldwide.

Matt Riddle, on the other hand, brought a completely different dynamic to the WWE landscape. With his laid-back persona, explosive athleticism, and ability to connect with fans, Riddle quickly became a standout star on the roster. His unique blend of mixed martial arts and professional wrestling styles set him apart from the crowd, earning him a dedicated following.

The pairing of Drew McIntyre and Matt Riddle, although unconventional on the surface, promised to be a captivating fusion of their respective strengths. McIntyre’s raw power and brawling prowess could have seamlessly complemented Riddle’s agility, technical acumen, and striking abilities. Together, they could have formed a dynamic tag team that would have added a fresh layer of excitement to WWE’s tag team division.

The “McRiddle” Mystery

The concept of “McRiddle” piqued the curiosity of wrestling fans worldwide. WWE’s willingness to explore unexpected partnerships demonstrated a commitment to keeping storytelling fresh and engaging. While WWE’s tag team division had seen its share of ups and downs over the years, the potential pairing of Drew McIntyre and Matt Riddle hinted at something truly unique.

“McRiddle” represented more than just a catchy team name; it embodied the spirit of unpredictability that makes professional wrestling so captivating. Fans could only imagine the electrifying chemistry these two talented individuals might have shared inside the squared circle. The prospect of their in-ring synergy was enough to generate a buzz of anticipation.

Matt Riddle’s Wrestling Future

As Matt Riddle navigates his post-WWE career, he finds himself in a position of significant interest for various wrestling promotions and even MMA companies. The wrestling world is abuzz with speculation about where the former WWE star might land next. However, Riddle faces a familiar hurdle in the form of WWE’s standard 90-day non-compete clause, which restricts him from officially signing with any new organization until the specified period elapses.

While the “McRiddle” tag team concept may remain a tantalizing “what could have been” scenario, it serves as a reminder of WWE’s creative flexibility and the ever-evolving nature of professional wrestling. In an industry known for its unexpected twists and turns, fans can only wonder about the uncharted paths Drew McIntyre and Matt Riddle’s careers may take in the future.

As the saying goes in the world of sports entertainment, “never say never.” Wrestling history is filled with stories of missed opportunities and unrealized potential, and the “McRiddle” partnership will undoubtedly be remembered as one of those intriguing “what could have been” moments. The wrestling world will continue to watch with anticipation as these two talented performers chart their respective paths, creating new chapters in their storied careers.