Matt Striker Says His Matt Riddle Defence At MLW Kings Of Colosseum Was 'Wrong' & 'Tone Deaf'
Matt Striker received a lot of criticism for his comments during Riddle's match with Jacob Fatu.
Jan 8, 2024
Major League Wrestling announcer Matt Striker has apologised for on-air comments he made during Matt Riddle's match with Jacob Fatu during Saturday's Kings of Colosseum event.
During the headline bout, Striker said the following regarding Riddle:
"He's from another world. 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? This is our coup de grâce right here".
Later on, Striker said:
"Let's talk about the elephant in the room. The court of public opinion would love to see Jacob Fatu slap the taste out of Matt Riddle's mouth. But the court of public opinion does not convict, I'm sorry. I know it's the world in which we live, but it's not the case.
"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".
After receiving backlash for his remarks on social media, Striker initially appeared to defend himself via X, writing: "Playing a character isn't always easy but getting the desired and necessary reaction is. Sorry".
After having more time to think about it, however, Striker appeared to repent, posting:
"I've given this a lot of thought. Could not sleep. My critics are right. I was wrong. Tone deaf. Trying to use the guise of art or character portrayal is self preservation. Thank you to those that shone light on this. It is now on me to stand in that light. I will be better".
Riddle has been accused of inappropriate behaviour in the past and was named in the #SpeakingOut movement by former wrestler Samantha Tavel (AKA Candy Cartwright). The former WWE United States Champion denied accusations of sexual assault but admitted to having an affair with her.
Riddle was fired by WWE in September 2023 shortly after he accused a police officer of sexual assault. He was said to have run out of chances within the company.
H/T POST Wrestling
