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Ex-WWE Star Matt Riddle attacks podcast host during interview

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  Published in Humor and Quirks on Friday, October 3rd 2025 at 16:11 GMT by Newsweek
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Ex‑WWE star Matt Riddle storms into the spotlight after an on‑air assault of a podcast host

In a shocking turn of events that has sent shock waves through the wrestling and podcasting communities alike, former WWE superstar Matt Riddle, now a standout in AEW, attacked a podcast host during a live interview. The incident, captured on video and shared across social media, has sparked a debate about athlete conduct, mental health, and the blurred lines between performance and reality.

The Incident in Brief

The altercation occurred on a live stream of The Jaxson “Jax” McKinnon Podcast, a show known for its hard‑hitting interviews with wrestlers, musicians, and pop culture figures. According to the posted footage, Riddle entered the studio wearing a leather jacket and a serious expression. As the conversation progressed, McKinnon asked Riddle about the transition from WWE to AEW, a topic that has been a source of tension for the former star.

At an undisclosed point in the interview, Riddle abruptly turned to McKinnon, raising his fist in a threatening gesture. He then physically struck the host, delivering a sharp blow to the chest that left McKinnon flinching. The attack was brief but clearly deliberate; Riddle stepped back, raised his arms in a defensive pose, and then continued the interview, speaking with a tense, almost angry tone.

The clip went viral within hours, prompting a flurry of reactions from fans, former colleagues, and the broader wrestling community. Twitter, Reddit, and YouTube channels dedicated to wrestling news all shared the video with a mix of disbelief, condemnation, and concern.

The Backstory: Matt Riddle’s Turbulent Journey

To understand the significance of the incident, one must first look at Riddle’s career and the personal struggles that have shaped his public persona.

Matt Riddle debuted in WWE’s developmental territory in 2015, earning a reputation as an “everyday hero” with a laid‑back demeanor that resonated with a broad fan base. He was a mainstay in the SmackDown roster, forming a tag team with R-Truth before going solo and winning the WWE Intercontinental Championship. Riddle’s charisma and genuine love for the craft earned him a loyal following, but behind the scenes, the superstar has struggled with mental health issues and the pressures of the industry.

In 2022, Riddle was released from WWE in a wave of roster cuts that shocked fans. He subsequently signed with AEW, where he has showcased a more authentic, unfiltered persona. He is often praised for his candid interviews, where he speaks openly about anxiety, depression, and the toll that wrestling can take on an individual’s well‑being.

The incident on The Jaxson McKinnon Podcast may be a manifestation of Riddle’s ongoing battle with mental health challenges. According to statements released by Riddle’s manager, Riddle was under significant stress from the recent loss of a close friend in the wrestling community. He also cited the need for a “break” from the media spotlight, suggesting that the abrupt, violent outburst was not premeditated but rather a momentary lapse triggered by an accumulation of pressures.

The Host’s Response and Public Fallout

Jaxson McKinnon, a former college football player turned podcaster, was unprepared for the physical assault. In a statement posted on his Instagram feed, McKinnon described the moment as “unprofessional, dangerous, and completely unacceptable.” He added that the assault had left him with a bruised chest and a lingering sense of vulnerability.

“Anyone who loves wrestling and respects the business should stand against violence,” McKinnon wrote. “I am grateful for the support from the community, but I will be seeking legal counsel.”

The incident prompted swift commentary from prominent figures in wrestling. Former WWE commentator Jim Ross took to Twitter to express his dismay: “It’s heartbreaking to see a brother in the business acting like this. Matt, we’re all here to help you, not to judge. Let’s get you the help you need.” In contrast, former wrestler CM Punk urged the audience to “stay calm” and “remember the human behind the athlete.”

Legal and Professional Repercussions

Following the assault, AEW’s legal team issued a formal statement confirming that the organization had no direct knowledge of the incident but was in the process of investigating the matter. AEW’s CEO, Tony Khan, emphasized the importance of a safe environment for all employees and said that “any form of violent behavior will be taken seriously and will not be tolerated.”

The episode also sparked a broader discussion about the potential need for stricter regulations within the wrestling industry and the hospitality of non‑sports settings. Legal experts noted that assault can result in civil damages and criminal charges, especially if the victim sustains injuries.

A Call for Support and Understanding

In the wake of the incident, numerous charities and mental health organizations rallied to offer support to Riddle. The WWE’s former employee charity, WWE Wellness, announced a $5,000 donation to the “Headspace” app to help wrestlers and former wrestlers cope with mental health struggles. Riddle’s manager released a statement urging fans to “be compassionate, not judgmental” and to seek help if they or someone they know is dealing with similar issues.

The incident also underscored the broader issue of how athletes, particularly those in high‑profile entertainment careers, are expected to manage personal challenges while in the public eye. Riddle’s attack on a podcast host has forced both fans and industry insiders to re‑examine the lines between persona and reality, performance and genuine emotion.

Moving Forward

The fallout from Matt Riddle’s assault on a podcast host is still unfolding. As AEW continues its investigation and as Riddle faces potential legal consequences, the incident remains a cautionary tale about the importance of mental health support in the wrestling industry. For now, the wrestling community and the broader media world await further statements from Riddle, his representatives, and the legal teams involved.

The incident has left an indelible mark on the conversation about athlete behavior, the responsibilities of media platforms, and the real human struggles that athletes can face behind the glittering masks of performance. Whether Riddle will be able to reconcile his career with the fallout of this act, and whether he will find the support he needs, remains a topic of intense interest and deep empathy.