Riddle’s absence from WWE television due to failed drug test, not personal life issues
Matt Riddle, one of WWE’s most versatile stars, has been noticeably absent from the ring. The reason behind this absence has now been revealed. Contrary to speculation, it has nothing to do with his personal life. Instead, Riddle has been written off television due to a failed drug test, marking his second failure since just before SummerSlam. As a result, he must attend a WWE-mandated rehab.
Riddle, who has shown his versatility in both tag and singles matches, was initially set to have a match at SummerSlam against Seth Rollins. However, the match was postponed due to Riddle’s failed drug test. The company informed Riddle that another failed test would result in a rehab or termination situation, similar to what happened with Jeff Hardy previously.
The recent six-week television write-off for Riddle is due to another failed drug test, and he will be sent to rehab. It’s believed that he has already entered treatment or will be going in soon, as most programs run for 30 days and he would need to be finished in time for his return in six weeks.
Riddle’s absence should be manageable for WWE from a storytelling standpoint. However, getting him back in the ring clean should be the priority. Riddle had previously stated that he would quit smoking marijuana if the conditions were right for him. Now, he will have to make good on that promise.
