Context:

Matt Riddle is set to defend his MLW World Heavyweight Championship against Donovan Dijak at the Azteca Lucha pay-per-view, despite suffering from rib injuries inflicted by Dijak in a previous encounter. Riddle has held the title for nearly four months, retaining it through several defenses, including against Satoshi Kojima and Alex Kane, and winning the Battle Riot match. Donovan Dijak poses a significant challenge as he remains undefeated by pinfall or submission since joining MLW, and has gained allies in manager Saint Laurent and Bishop Dyer. Riddle acknowledges the challenges of being the champion, noting the constant target on his back and the added pressures of media responsibilities. Austin Aries, who will commentate the event, emphasized the difficulty of maintaining the championship and hinted that the upcoming match in Chicago could be pivotal in the title's future.

Dive Deeper:

• Matt Riddle will defend his MLW World Heavyweight Championship at Azteca Lucha against Donovan Dijak, despite suffering from rib injuries caused by a previous attack with a steel chair by Dijak.

• Riddle has successfully defended his title for nearly four months since defeating Satoshi Kojima at the Kings of Colosseum event, with notable victories against Alex Kane and a win in the Battle Riot match.

• Donovan Dijak remains a formidable opponent as he has yet to be pinned or submitted since his MLW debut and has formed strategic partnerships with manager Saint Laurent and ally Bishop Dyer.

• Riddle, acknowledging the relentless challenges of being the reigning champion, emphasized the motivation that comes with the title, despite never being in a straightforward one-on-one match situation.

• Austin Aries, serving as a commentator for the event, highlighted the challenges of retaining the championship, noting the constant pressure on Riddle as a marked man and the face of the company.

• Aries suggested that the title match in Chicago could be a decisive moment in the championship's trajectory, considering Dijak's strengths and Riddle's current physical condition.

• The Azteca Lucha event, which will be held at Cicero Stadium in Chicago, marks a significant occasion for MLW, with the potential for a major shift in the championship landscape.