Matt Riddle’s triumphant return to Major League Wrestling (MLW) culminated in a momentous victory against the legendary Satoshi Kojima at the Kings of Colosseum event, securing him the coveted MLW World Heavyweight Championship. This achievement marks a significant milestone in Riddle’s wrestling career, a journey that has taken him through various promotions, including WWE and New Japan Pro-Wrestling, before leading him back to MLW. Riddle’s elation at winning the title is palpable, describing the experience as “amazing” and a testament to the hard work and dedication he’s poured into his craft. The victory against Kojima, a respected figure in the wrestling world, adds another layer of significance to the accomplishment, making it a truly memorable night for Riddle.
Riddle’s previous attempt to capture the MLW World Heavyweight Championship in 2018 against Swerve Strickland, though unsuccessful, served as a stepping stone in his journey. The hard-fought battle, lasting nearly 22 minutes, showcased Riddle’s resilience and determination. Following that match, Riddle continued to hone his skills in the independent circuit, WWE, and New Japan Pro-Wrestling, gaining valuable experience and further solidifying his reputation as a formidable competitor. This journey eventually brought him back to MLW, where he embarked on a winning streak, culminating in his championship victory against Kojima.
The “sensational weekend” in Texas, as Riddle described it, marked the culmination of his efforts and the realization of a long-held ambition. The electric atmosphere of the crowd further amplified the significance of the moment, creating an unforgettable experience for both Riddle and the fans in attendance. The victory against Kojima, a seasoned veteran and respected figure in the wrestling world, adds further weight to Riddle’s accomplishment, solidifying his position as a top-tier competitor in MLW.
Riddle’s return to MLW has been even more rewarding than his previous stint with the organization. He credits the high caliber of talent within MLW for the enriching experience. The roster boasts a diverse array of wrestlers, including Mistico, KENTA, Donovan Dijak, Tom Lawlor, and Bobby Fish, each bringing their unique styles and skills to the table. This competitive environment has pushed Riddle to elevate his performance, contributing to his growth as a wrestler and culminating in his championship win. The presence of such accomplished wrestlers within the organization not only enhances the quality of matches but also provides a stimulating environment for growth and development.
Riddle acknowledges the challenging nature of competing in MLW, describing the roster as a “laundry list of fires” and highlighting the presence of talent from CMLL and New Japan Pro-Wrestling. This challenging environment has undoubtedly played a crucial role in Riddle’s development as a wrestler, pushing him to constantly improve and adapt. The opportunity to face top-tier opponents on a regular basis has sharpened his skills and prepared him for the rigors of championship competition. This experience has been instrumental in his success and will continue to be a valuable asset as he navigates the challenges that lie ahead.
Despite starting the year on a high note, Riddle faces a daunting task in his first title defense. He is scheduled to face both Satoshi Kojima and Alex Kane in a triple-threat match at MLW SuperFight 6 in Atlanta. This high-stakes encounter will test Riddle’s ability to defend his newly acquired championship against two formidable opponents simultaneously. The triple-threat format adds an extra layer of complexity and unpredictability to the match, making it a must-see event for wrestling fans. The outcome of this match will significantly impact the landscape of MLW and further define Riddle’s reign as champion.
