Matt Striker Was "Wrong" & "Tone Deaf" With Controversial Matt Riddle Comments

MLW commentator Matt Striker has responded to the backlash from comments he made during Matt Riddle's first match back with the promotion. 

At MLW's Kings of Colosseum show, Riddle defeated Jacob Fatu. This was the former WWE United States Champion's first match since being released from WWE in September 2023. After the match, the two men shared a sign of respect. 

Matt Striker's Comments

Striker was commentating on the match and was impressed with what he was seeing from Riddle. During part of the match, Stiker said the following: 

"How do you let this guy go? This guy is a star, a mega-million dollar star. I don’t care what he does. How do you let him go?"

Many have taken issue with Striker's comment about not caring what Riddle's done. Riddle has faced multiple accusations of sexual misconduct including from his ex-girlfriend Daniella Petrow. Riddle was also accused of sexual misconduct in 2020 by wrestler Candy Cartwright. While Riddle admitted to having an affair with Cartwright, he claimed it was entirely consensual. This affair led to Riddle's marriage to his ex-wife Lisa ending. A legal case by Cartwright against Riddle and others was dropped in 2021.

Later in the match, Striker doubled down on his comment about Riddle being able to do whatever he wanted. 

"He can do whatever he wants, he can kick your ass. Anyone out there (has) got a problem with him, step to him out on the street, watch what happens. End of conversation." 

Matt Striker Responds

Striker's comments during the show have faced a backlash, with many taking issue with the notion that somebody accused of sexual misconduct can do "whatever he wants." On Twitter, Striker reflected on what he had said.