Matt Riddle may have been released by WWE in 2023, but according to him, the door wasnt completely closed especially around WrestleMania season. Fans were shocked at WrestleMania 41 in 2025 when then-TNA World Champion Joe Hendry was revealed as Randy Ortons surprise opponent, only to get quickly taken out by The Viper. But now Riddle says that spot almost went to him. Speaking on the Rewind Recap Relive podcast on February 21, 2026, Riddle revealed that Orton personally pushed for him to be the WrestleMania opponent and that talks actually happened behind the scenes. Riddle explained that Orton reached out to him directly about the idea. That wasnt just casual talk. Riddle said he immediately took the idea seriously and contacted Triple H himself to make it clear he was ready. According to Riddle, the response from WWE leadership was professional but non-committal. While the company chose Hendry for the surprise spot, Riddle made it clear that communication channels havent completely dried up. While Riddle continues working the independent scene and competing in promotions like MLW, this shows that, as recently as 2025, a WrestleMania return was at least discussed. It didnt happen but it was closer than fans knew. Do you think Matt Riddle vs. Randy Orton at WrestleMania wouldve been a bigger moment than the Joe Hendry surprise? Let us know your thoughts. G Add as a preferred source on Google
