Matt Riddle Prepares for a Tough Title Defense at MLW Azteca Lucha
Matt Riddle is set to face Donovan Dijak for the Major League Wrestling (MLW) world title in an exciting matchup at the Azteca Lucha pay-per-view event this Saturday in Chicago. Riddle has been on a remarkable run as champion, having held the title for nearly four months after his victory over Satoshi Kojima at Kings of Colosseum.
Since winning the championship, Riddle has successfully defended his title against Kojima again and faced off against Alex Kane during SuperFight 6. Last month, he also triumphed in the Battle Riot match, solidifying his standing as a formidable champion.
This upcoming match presents Riddle with unique challenges. Dijak, who has yet to be pinned or submitted since his MLW debut last year, represents a serious threat. The two previously clashed at MLW’s One Shot event in December, where Dijak lost by disqualification. Recently, he has teamed up with manager Saint Laurent and formed a new alliance with Bishop Dyer, making him an even more formidable opponent.
Riddle understands the weight of his responsibilities as the top champion in the company. “At the end of the day, it’s kind of like motivation,” he shared, recognizing the different dynamics that are at play when defending his title. "Sometimes when you’re just one-on-one with somebody, you kind of drop your guard. Unfortunately for me, it’s never a one-on-one situation, even when it’s supposed to be."
Despite the pressure, Riddle remains confident. After his victory in the Battle Riot against 39 other competitors, including wrestling legend Rob Van Dam, he feels prepared for the challenge. However, he admits to some concerns; he enters the match with injuries sustained from a steel chair attack by Dijak.
"The ribs are a little banged up," he commented, "but that’s bound to happen in this line of work." Riddle is aware that Dijak might try to target his injuries during the match, but he is also prepared for the fight. “I’ve been doing some sit-ups. I’ve been trying to keep the abs tight,” he quipped.
On the commentating side, Austin Aries is expected to provide insights during the event. Having recently returned as a commentator for MLW, Aries emphasizes the challenges of maintaining the championship. He remarked, “I know as good as anybody that winning the championship is difficult, but keeping it is even harder because now you’re a marked man. Everyone’s coming for you.”
Aries highlighted the additional responsibilities that come with being the champion, including media obligations and representing the company, all of which can weigh heavily on the titleholder. He expressed support for Riddle, acknowledging the pressures he faces as he continues to hold the title.
As the clock ticks down to the Azteca Lucha event, anticipation builds not only for Riddle’s performance but also for a high-stakes encounter that promises to be thrilling for fans. The event, taking place at Cicero Stadium in Chicago, will also be accessible to a wider audience on platforms like YouTube.
In the world of professional wrestling, each title defense tells a story—one of struggle, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. This match is no different, as both Riddle and Dijak seek to carve their names into MLW history. With the crowd’s excitement palpable, the stage is set for an unforgettable night in the squared circle.
