Matt Riddle Missed Barnsley Charity Show, Deposit Not Refunded

Former WWE star Matt Riddle did not appear at a charity professional wrestling event in Barnsley, England on Sunday, August 31, leaving the local promoter scrambling to find a replacement and raising questions about an unpaid appearance deposit, according to reports and the promotion. Riddle had been advertised to face British wrestler Simon Miller at Global Wrestling Kingdoms A New Kingdom Rises, a fundraiser for survivors of domestic abuse and homeless veterans, but did not travel to the United Kingdom and was replaced on the card by Scottish veteran Grado.

The promotion said Riddle had been booked months in advance through his manager but raised concerns in the days before the show about travel and accommodation. According to a report, Riddle described the available flights as "cheap" and said he did not want to be in a hotel room in Barnsley for two days. He also told the promoter he had accepted another booking but intended to do both events, then stopped responding to follow up messages, the report said. Global Wrestling Kingdoms informed attendees and adjusted the card after Riddle failed to arrive.

Promoters say Riddle was given a deposit for the appearance that has not...