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

#2. To build up anticipation

What if WWE is trying to build suspense for Matt Riddle's debut?

When they do it correctly, WWE has been great at building anticipation for the debut of certain Superstars - and that could be exactly what they are trying to do with Matt Riddle. In fact, it's probably pretty safe to say that The WWE Universe is dying to see the former NXT Superstar in action on SmackDown, which is why the company is holding off on it for now.

Not only will doing so create the kind of suspense that will have fans glued to their television screens to see when he finally debuts, but it will make his eventual appearance all the more satisfying. The longer WWE hypes Riddle as being a major player, the easier it will be to get fans to accept him as one.

In the end, suspense is a very powerful thing and it could very well help Matt Riddle as he starts his career on SmackDown. Maybe the company is even saving him as a special attraction of sorts, which again would help his brand as a Superstar and give SmackDown a big segment to build towards when Riddle does eventually debut.

When WWE gives a Superstar a big build-up, it is important that the individual can live up to the hype. Given how well received he has been so far in his wrestling career, Matt Riddle is certainly up to the job.