WrestleMania Weekend: Can’t-miss matches outside of the WWE

Matt Riddle vs. Minoru Suzuki: Matt Riddle’s Bloodsport

Matt Riddle’s Bloodsport was considered to be the first “big” event of WrestleMania weekend and it delivered through and through. The inclusion of shoot style professional wrestling was an intriguing style that many mainstream American professional wrestling fans do not get to see. Riddle’s event helped feature this style with many legends in the sport who’ve found success in not only professional wrestling, but the mixed martial arts industry as well. Everything on this card built to the main event and when Riddle and Suzuki stood across from each other in the ring it was a sight to see.

The referee couldn’t even get through the instructions before both men were in each other’s face. It was clear that this match was going to define the term “stiff” and every moment after that proved the point. Every single landed shot was cringe worthy as both Riddle and Suzuki took liberties with each other. One of the best spots is when both men locked in heel hooks and were yelling at each other as they looked to finish the submission. The action was pretty back and forth as they traded tight submissions, knees and open-palmed strikes.

The finish came with Suzuki locked in another sleeper hold, this time catching Riddle in the center of the ring. Riddle would try to use a senton splash to break the hold, but the 49-year old Japanese star would not let go of the hold, getting the finish. Both men showed a great amount of respect at the end as the crowd showered them with praise. This was a great, hard-hitting match from start to finish and is well worth the replay view if you’re a fan of any style of wrestling. If you’re a fan of mixed martial arts trying to make the transition to professional wrestling, this match and entire card helps blur the line between the two.