Matt Riddle is taking time to try and set the record straight. Now going public with details of the allegations against him of sexual abuse, he posted a video for fans with a specific message about what happened.
Independent wrestler Candi Cartwright has accused Riddle of sexual abuse and over the last few days, posted photos proving the two had an affair. Riddle had immediately denied any wrongdoing when Cartwright accused him of sexual abuse as part of the #SpeakingOut movement, but after pictures of the two of them together surfaced, Riddle felt it was time to address the allegations.
He posted a video on social media addressing both Samantha Tavel, (Candy Cartwright) and the fans. Saying he'd make this quick, he claims, "I have never, in my entire life, sexually assaulted a man, woman or anybody." He then directed his video to his accuser saying, "I never sexually assaulted you."
He acknowledged that the two did have an affair and while he hadn't denied that, he didn't want to make it public because he already felt like a “real piece a crap” after having a “fling” and having lied to his wife and friends. When he got depressed from all the lies, he' tried to end the relationship with Cartwright and she pursued him, stalking him in multiple ways.
You can see the video below:
Riddle adds that now that she can no longer get to him, she's tried to use the #SpeakingOut movement to ruin his career, which is unacceptable. He repeated that he never abused her and that he's trying to move on after having made a mistake in his past by having a relationship with her at all.
Riddle mentions that none of this is new information for his wife who he told about the affair some time ago, but that Cartwright is forcing him to bring this all back to the surface, which is not cool.
How Will This Affect His WWE Career?
There have been recent reports that Vince McMahon has high hopes for Riddle, seeing his as possibly the next Shawn Michaels. One would have to assume that Riddle being public an in front of the situation (assuming you believe him) is the best course of action.
Still, others have been fired for similar allegations and any more information proving Riddle did act inappropriately could pose issues for the SmackDown Superstar.