Kurt Angle says he thinks WWE wanted him to serve as Matt Riddle’s manager and eventually build to a match between the two.

Kurt Angle introduced Matt Riddle to SmackDown on Friday, formalizing an exciting new addition to the roster. And there is potential for more.

WWE originally planned for Angle to serve as Riddle’s manager in his call-up to the main roster.

“WWE offered me a job to manage Matt Riddle,” said Angle. “Unfortunately, I turned it down. I just have so much going with my business, Physically Fit Nutrition, and I need to make sure it succeeds before I do anything else.”

The Angle-Riddle pairing makes sense as both bring legitimacy and authenticity to pro wrestling with their history in high-level sports. Angle is a former Olympic gold medalist and Riddle was a success in the UFC despite having victories overturned after testing positive for marijuana.

The 51-year-old Angle is also