Riddle, who changed into launched utilizing WWE in September 2023, describes his departure as a turning point, one that has allowed him to regain an experience of stability and properly being that he felt changed into lost whilst he became nonetheless with the corporation. His launch followed a series of controversies and incidents, inclusive of a high-quality one at JFK airport and revelations of failing drug checks at some point in his tenure.
In the interview, Riddle reflects on WWE’s approach to his departure. He acknowledges that while the company acted in what it believed were its best interests, the experience left him feeling undervalued as an individual. “While I think WWE was doing the best they could, or thought they were doing the best they could, but at the same time, WWE protects WWE, as they should. But at the same time, we’re all human. We’re all people and sometimes I think that gets lost in translation in a publicly traded company,” Riddle states.
Despite the professional success he enjoyed with WWE, including substantial financial rewards and widespread recognition, Riddle admits that his personal life was in disarray. The constant travel, relentless schedule, and the demands of performing and memorizing promos took a toll on his family life. “Even though I was making great money, my family life deteriorated, I got divorced and other things and then on top of that just being able to see the kids, then just taking care of responsibilities. When I’m flying to a different city or driving to a different city every day and wrestling and memorizing promos and all these things, a lot of other things fell to the side,” Riddle reveals.
The former WWE star describes a profound sense of relief and rejuvenation since his departure. “I’m in a way different place [now]. I feel way better. It’s hard to explain because most people think, ‘Oh you’re there, it must be great.’ Professionally my life was awesome. Personally, my life was in shambles. You lose your family. You lose this, that and you’re trying to rebuild anything and you don’t have time,” Riddle admits, highlighting the stark contrast between his professional success and personal struggles.
In addition to discussing his exit, Riddle addresses past tensions with WWE’s top star, Roman Reigns. Before his departure, Riddle had publicly claimed that he could defeat Reigns in a real fight, a statement that reportedly strained their relationship. However, Riddle now indicates that any previous animosity has been resolved. Reflecting on their match in 2022, he says, “We’re good now,” suggesting that their professional interactions have since evolved into mutual respect.
Riddle’s interview gives a poignant reminder of the personal costs that could accompany professional success, particularly in excessive-stakes environments like WWE. His tale is a testament to the complexities of lifestyles behind the scenes in the global of expert wrestling and the demanding situations of balancing public acclaim with non-public achievement.