Former WWE Star Matt Riddle Turns Heel in MLW, Announces “rude Dude” Persona
PHILADELPHIA, PA – October 5, 2025 – In a stunning turn of events at the MLW “Slaughterhouse” event Saturday night, former WWE United States Champion Matt Riddle underwent a character transformation, defeating Alex Hammerstone via underhanded tactics and declaring the end of his popular “King of bros” persona. Riddle now goes by the moniker “Rude Dude.”
The heel turn unfolded during the closing moments of Riddle’s match against Hammerstone, the former MLW World Heavyweight Champion. Interference from Mads Krugger and Dijak, the latter wielding a steel chair, created chaos as Hammerstone prepared to execute his ”Nightmare Pendulum” finishing move. With the referee distracted, Riddle delivered a low blow to Hammerstone before the official could regain control and count the pinfall. Following the match, Riddle addressed the crowd, officially announcing the retirement of the “King of Bros” and the arrival of a more aggressive chapter in his career.
Riddle’s “King of Bros” character propelled him from a career in mixed martial arts to prominence within WWE. Signing with the company in 2018, he quickly gained popularity in NXT before achieving success on the main roster, capturing the United States Championship and twice winning the Raw tag Team Championship alongside Randy Orton as part of the “RK-Bro” team.
Since leaving WWE, Riddle has competed for several top promotions, including New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), where he held the NJPW World Television Championship. This shift to a heel role in MLW represents a important reinvention for the wrestler, signaling his intent to explore new facets of his character and evolve within the professional wrestling landscape.
