Wrestling star Matt Riddle is addressing the controversy surrounding his absence
from Global Wrestling kingdom’s (GWK) debut show in the UK. riddle issued a
video statement and spoke with TMZ Inside The Ring, refuting claims he skipped
a charity event. The current MLW World Champion alleges GWK mishandled his
travel arrangements, misled fans, and falsely advertised his appearance.

Riddle stated that GWK booked him on a Thursday flight to London for a Sunday
show, without scheduling additional appearances or matches. He said, “GWK, the
reason I didn’t go is because you booked me a flight for Thursday for a show
that was happening Sunday and you said you where booking me meet and greets,
other matches and appearances. You did none of that.” Riddle maintains he
informed the promotion multiple times that he would not remain in a hotel for
two days without scheduled activities, and instead accepted other bookings.

Riddle’s Explanation and Counter-Accusations

That same weekend, Riddle participated in a Boca Raton Championship Wrestling
event in Florida, which conflicted with the GWK show. He claims he offered to
fly to London on Saturday night at his own expense, but GWK declined. Riddle
added, “You also booked me the worst flight in history, bro. Middle seat,no
meal,no checked bag. GWK, this is probably your last run.”

“GWK, the reason I didn’t go is because you booked me a flight for Thursday
for a show that was happening sunday.”

Riddle also challenged the assertion that the event was always intended as a
charity show, describing the charity aspect as a “last-second” addition. He
told TMZ,”Four months ago,this wasn’t a charity event. Three months ago, it
wasn’t a charity event. This week was the first time I got a message saying,
well, you’re gonna do this to a charity event.” Riddle also stated that he has
received death threats from angry fans as a result of the backlash.

He accused GWK of continuing to promote his appearance even after they knew he
would not be attending, calling it “a scumbag move.” Regarding claims that he
has not returned his deposit, Riddle stated, “I never said I wouldn’t pay you
guys back, that’s a lie.”

Analysis of the Dispute

The situation between matt Riddle and GWK has become a elaborate dispute,
with conflicting narratives from both sides. GWK claims Riddle’s absence left
them in a difficult position, forcing them to issue refunds.Riddle, though,
contends that GWK did not fulfill their contractual obligations. Nonetheless of
who is at fault, this incident further damages Riddle’s reputation within the
wrestling community, adding to a series of controversies in 2025.