Matt Riddle Makes Surprising Claim About UFC & MMA Legend Jon Jones
Yes, there’s been another Matt Riddle claim, this time it involves UFC and MMA legend Jon Jones. Riddle made the crazy claim that he beat Jon Jones twice in wrestling matches as a youth. Here’s what Riddle said, why it matters, and the interesting story of him and Jon Jones in wrestling.
Matt Riddle Goes To Detail On His Claim
Riddle was on the JimmyV3 podcast and the conversation came up about Jon Jones. Riddle made the claim that he beat Jon Jones when they were young in a wrestling match by saying the following quote.
“Jon Jones is a beast. He’s the man. But you know when you were like 17 and I was 18, I had your number. That’s it. Not a big deal.”
Now Matt Riddle has built a reputation as an NCAA‑level wrestler, a UFC competitor, and later a successful professional wrestler. He has also built himself as incredibly untrustworthy and a complete trainwreck in every appearance he has had through most of his post-WWE tenure. However, after doing research, this one actually might have some truth
The Story Though Is Very Stretched
Matt Riddle recounted meeting Jones in high‑school‑era wrestling tournaments and said he finished ahead of Jones on at least two occasions. He referenced specific tournaments, including a state championship and the Windsor Christmas tournament. That is where Riddle got 1st place while Jones placed 3rd. In fact, there is an actual photo of a young Matt Riddle and Jon Jones on a podium for one of these tournaments.
However, here is where things get a little murky. Jon Jones himself has claimed on various platforms that he never even wrestled Riddle on any of these tournaments. The person he lost to was actually Jack Sullivan back in 2004. After doing a search on Bing, According to Long Island Wrestling Association’s website, Jon Jones is being truthful here. Riddle actually faced Charley Taylor in the same round Jones faced Sullivan.
Now, both men came up through the American amateur wrestling system, which often serves as a pipeline to MMA and other combat sports. Jon Jones transitioned from high school wrestling into MMA and quickly rose through the ranks. Matt Riddle also used wrestling as a foundation for MMA before moving into professional wrestling. So it is possible that this actually did happen.
Why You Need To Be Skeptical Of Riddle & Jones
Now look, while this may have a hint to be true, remember you have to be skeptical of anything Jon Jones and Matt Riddle say. Jones isn’t all there in general, and Matt Riddle is an absolute trainwreck who lies a ton. This is the same man who once lied about being sexually assaulted at JFK airport. He even once claimed that he was considered to return to WrestleMania 41 to face off against Randy Orton.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Did Matt Riddle and Jon Jones ever fight professionally?
No. Their encounters were in amateur wrestling tournaments during their teens; they never faced each other in MMA or professional wrestling.
Q: Does “beating” Jones in high school mean Riddle was the better fighter?
Not necessarily. Amateur results reflect a moment in time. Jon Jones went on to become one of MMA’s most successful fighters, while Riddle built a different career path that led to success in both MMA and pro wrestling.
Q: Are these tournament results verifiable?
Kind of. After diving through old wrestling records both Riddle and Jones did compete in the 2004 State Championships for wrestling. However, nothing in writing about both wrestling each other.
This Is A Fascinating Fact About The Two If True
Matt Riddle’s claim that he beat Jon Jones twice in amateur wrestling is a compelling piece of sports trivia. It reminds fans that elite athletes often cross paths long before they become famous. Whether treated as a proud memory or a curious footnote, its a great story involving both men.
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