Matt Riddle Explains JFK Airport Outburst: Blames Alcohol, Ear Infection, And Travel Stress

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Ex-WWE Superstar Matt Riddle has opened up about the incident at JFK Airport, shedding light on the factors that led to his disruptive behavior. In an interview on “The MMA Hour,” Riddle attributed his belligerent antics to a combination of alcohol, an ear infection, and the stress of travel.

Riddle’s Explanation

Riddle revealed that the events leading up to the airport incident had taken a toll on him. He described feeling overworked after a four-day tour, followed by a quick trip to India for a one-day event, and then heading back to the United States. According to Riddle, this hectic schedule had a significant impact on his well-being.

During his flight back to the U.S., Riddle experienced a severe ear infection, which further exacerbated his discomfort. He admitted to consuming alcohol during the flight, and coupled with the frustration of flight delays, he found himself in what he described as a “perfect storm” of challenging circumstances.

Reflection and Moving Forward

Despite the tumultuous experience, Riddle expressed a sense of introspection and growth, acknowledging that the airport incident served as a wake-up call. He recognized the need to reassess his workload and prioritize his well-being to avoid similar situations in the future.

Addressing the sexual harassment accusation he made against a Port Authority police officer during the same time, Riddle acknowledged the role of alcohol in the situation. While he chose not to pursue charges, he took responsibility for placing himself in that position.

Following his departure from WWE, Riddle has resumed his wrestling career with other promotions, embracing a new chapter after the challenges he faced.