5 Theories why Matt Riddle wasn't on SmackDown in person this week

#4. Saving him for the Intercontinental title picture

What if WWE is saving Matt Riddle for The Intercontinental Title picture?

Is WWE saving Matt Riddle to put him instantly into contention for a title?

One would think that the company could have accomplished this by just putting him in the ongoing Intercontinental Title tournament, but what fun would that be? Instead, by waiting until after the finals play out, WWE can have the new champion talk about having conquered everyone they have faced - before then introducing Riddle into the picture.

Not only would this be a great way to continue to elevate the Intercontinental Championship, it would let fans who are unfamiliar with Riddle know that he is a threat to be taken seriously. A shock appearance could lead Riddle to a surprise title victory over AJ Styles or Daniel Bryan, which would make for a great debut for Riddle.

In all honesty, things take time to develop and the company might be saving Riddle for this sort of opportunity. At least that way, Matt Riddle can have what would no doubt be an excellent match with either Styles or Bryan, allowing the former NXT Tag Team Champion a chance to prove what he is made of.