RVD, Alex Hammerstone Among Several Surprises At MLW Battle Riot

MLW held their Battle Riot VII last night, with the show emanating from the Thunder Studios Arena in Long Beach, California. The main event of the evening was the staple Battle Riot match that saw reigning MLW World Heavyweight Champion Matt Riddle put his title on the line against 39 other individuals in the major elimination battle royal-style bout (where wrestlers can be taken out of the match via pinfall, submission or being thrown over the top rope). 

The match featured several surprises, similar to WWE’s Royal Rumble match. Former MLW World Heavyweight Champion Alex Hammerstone made his big return to the company after leaving over a year ago to join TNA, marking his first match in the promotion since the back end of 2023 when he lost to Jacob Fatu. 

RVD was another surprise, marking his first ever appearance in MLW. Raj Dhesi, the former Jinder Mahal, showed up in a surprise, as did Chris Masters, now known as Chris Adonis. To wrap up the surprises, Titus Alexander was another unannounced competitor. 

Bishop Dyer, the former Baron Corbin, made his MLW debut in the matchup too, though his appearance was announced ahead of time. The result of the match saw Riddle retain, standing tall with the gold and managing to outlast the huge field. Earlier this year, Riddle signed an exclusive deal with MLW.

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