10 Wrestlers who could replace Tommaso Ciampa as NXT World Champion

Tommaso Ciampa is in high spirits after his surgery, but a return date has not been announced yet.

Possible NXT Champion #4: Matt Riddle

Years in the pro wrestling business: 5 years (journeyman--just barely out of the rookie phase, making his success even more impressive.)

Height and Weight: 6'2" 210 lbs.

Wrestling style: Striking and submissions.

While pro wrestlers like Brock Lesnar, Bobby Lashley, and CM Punk have all jumped from pro wrestling to MMA, Matt Riddle did the exact opposite. He was a contestant on the Ultimate Fighter reality series, and though he did not win was impressive enough to earn a UFC contract.

Riddle joined the world of pro wrestling after his MMA career ended. He left the UFC as their number three best in takedown defence and their number eight top striker overall. Riddle quickly adapted to the world of pro wrestling and became a force in the independent leagues before joining NXT last year.

Why he might be the next NXT champion: The King of Bros has a ton of charisma, and mainstream media appeal, and in terms of wrestling his skill belies his short stint in sports entertainment. Big things are in store for Riddle in the future, and that could include a reign as NXT champion.

Edited by Sagnik Monga