10 Big Signings WWE Must Make In 2017

8. Matt Riddle

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CM Punk completed an incredibly rough transition from pro-wrestling to mixed martial arts when Mickey Gall steamrolled him in his UFC debut earlier this year, but Matt Riddle has jumped seamlessly in the opposite direction. The former UFC welterweight has torn the American independent circuit up this year, and has fast become a “must see” attraction on the world’s smaller stages.

Riddle has taken to pro-wrestling like a natural. He leans heavily on his incredible athletic base and MMA experience to create a fluid striking/submission-based wrestling style, but he’s not averse to throwing the odd German Suplex or two either. Riddle’s freakishly good, and while it’ll take a few more years of seasoning before he’s truly ready for mainstream television, his skill level is completely unheard of in wrestlers of his experience.

Riddle only started his professional wrestling career in January 2015, yet he’s already having knockdown matches with guys like Chris Hero and Will Ospreay in a wide variety of companies. His naturally cocky swagger and endearing “bro” character make him inherently likeable, and when you see him wrestle, it’s hard not to be impressed. If WWE are seeking a hot prospect with real combat sports legitimacy, they should look no further.

Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.