Matt Riddle has criticized each WWE NXT and AEW for the way they use their partner promotions, saying the relationships feel one-sided and unfair.
During a recent interview with TV Insider, Riddle claimed that NXT “mooches” talent from TNA in an identical way that AEW “mooches” talent from Recent Japan Pro Wrestling. He argued that these partnerships profit NXT and AEW greater than they assist TNA or NJPW, especially in the case of star power and visibility.
Riddle said he believes any working agreement in wrestling must have more balance and real give-and-take between the businesses. He explained that while wrestlers will at all times follow the cash or the largest opportunity, he personally prefers to not sign a normal long-term contract. As a substitute, he enjoys operating as a virtual free agent who can work many places and stay in demand on his own terms.
Riddle’s comments come at a time when AEW’s partnership with NJPW continues to attract criticism from fans who feel AEW gets the higher end of the deal by featuring names like Kazuchika Okada, Jay White, and Will Ospreay. NXT’s partnership with TNA has drawn similar reactions after talents resembling Jordynne Grace and Joe Hendry moved into the WWE system.