Matt Riddle Explains Why WWE Performance Center Recruits Are Allegedly Clashing

After claiming fights have broken out at the WWE Performance Center, Matt Riddle says there’s a specific reason behind the reported tension — and it all comes down to culture.

Speaking on the Rewind Recap Relive podcast on February 21, 2026, Riddle pointed directly at WWE’s recruiting strategy over the past several years, which has leaned heavily on signing former athletes instead of strictly independent wrestling veterans.

“For a while now, they’ve been hiring athletes. When you hire an athlete, at least you know they’re athletic and they look the part, which WWE likes.”

But according to Riddle, that approach may come with unintended consequences. He claimed that recruits who didn’t come up through the independent wrestling scene may struggle to understand the traditions and hierarchy of the business — which can create jealousy and friction when pushes and opportunities are handed out.

“If you weren’t brought up in pro wrestling or didn’t go through the indies, you might not understand how brutal it can be. You start thinking, ‘Why is this guy getting pushed? I’m bigger, I’m stronger, I look better.’ But they don’t always understand that there’s a respect factor. You’ve got to pay your dues one way or another.”

Riddle also noted he’s been told WWE may be shifting direction again, returning to a heavier focus on experienced independent wrestlers — similar to the recruitment style during the period when he was signed.

“I’ve been told they're going back to what they were doing when I got signed — combing the indies and bringing in more experienced wrestlers who already understand the grind.”

Whether WWE officially pivots back to an indie-heavy model remains to be seen. But if Riddle’s assessment is accurate, the clash between athletes and indie veterans may be fueling more than just competition — it may be fueling conflict.

Do you think WWE should focus on seasoned indie talent, or is recruiting elite athletes still the right move? Let us know what you think.