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Matt Striker
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Matthew Kaye[1] (born June 26, 1974)[2] is an American professional wrestler, professional wrestling commentator, actor and former high school teacher, signed to Major League Wrestling, using the ring name Matt Striker. During his career he has worked for WWE, Impact Wrestling, Lucha Libre AAA World Wide, Lucha Underground and Major League Wrestling. Striker is currently working commentary for MLW Wrestling.
Key Information
Professional wrestling career
[edit]Early career (2000–2005)
[edit]
After training with Johnny Rodz, Kaye began working on the American independent circuit.[3] While working full-time as a teacher in 2004, he continued to wrestle during his vacation time and weekends, while also using sick days.[2] Striker trained and worked the northeast independent circuit with notable stablemates Ricky Vega and Tim Arson. On December 16, 2004, Striker began a tour of Japan with Pro Wrestling Zero1 and was later invited back for an extended tour in early 2005.[5] After resigning from his teaching position, he continued to wrestle around New York, and on April 30, 2005, won the New York Wrestling Connection (NYWC)'s Heavyweight Championship by defeating Mike Mondo.[2][6] A few weeks later, on May 21, while still the Heavyweight Champion, he defeated Joey Braggiol to win the NYWC Interstate Championship, but only held the championship for two weeks, before losing it back to Braggiol on June 4.[2][7] He made a few appearances for Ring of Honor in mid-2005, before returning to NYWC to lose the Heavyweight Championship to Jerry Lynn on July 30, after holding it for four months.[2][6] He continued to wrestle for independent promotions throughout mid-2005, until he signed a contract with WWE.[2]
World Wrestling Entertainment/WWE (2005–2013)
[edit]Debut and Striker's Classroom (2005–2006)
[edit]Kaye, using the name Matt Martel, wrestled Kurt Angle in an invitational match on the February 24, 2005 episode of SmackDown! in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.[2][8][9] After the revelation that Kaye was a teacher appeared in mainstream news publications,[9] Kaye made a WWE second appearance on the July 11, 2005 episode of Raw to face Angle for a second time.[10] His news coverage was played up by Angle, who once again defeated Kaye.[10] The following week, Angle defeated him for the third consecutive time.[11] Kaye, now known as Matt Striker, went on to compete on Heat and appear in WWE's developmental territory, Deep South Wrestling.[2]
Striker developed a villainous teacher persona and beginning on December 12, hosted a segment called Matt Striker's Classroom on Raw.[12] During the segments, he ridiculed the audience and treated the crowd as intellectual inferiors.[12] On April 24, he participated in a six-man tag team match, in which he, Chris Masters and Shelton Benjamin were defeated by Carlito, Rob Van Dam, and Charlie Haas.[13] During the Backlash pay-per-view, Striker hosted an edition of his Classroom segment, which ended when Eugene, who in storyline was mentally impaired, attacked Striker.[14] Striker, in retaliation, attacked Eugene with a dictionary the following night on Raw.[15] The feud between the two ended when Eugene gained a mentor in "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan and defeated Striker.[16] Striker appeared only rarely on Raw throughout June and July, and his final match for the brand was on July 31, when he was quickly defeated by John Cena.[17]
ECW (2006–2008)
[edit]At the end of August 2006, Striker left the Raw brand to join ECW, making his debut on August 23.[18] He continued his Classroom segment on ECW, which provoked a feud with The Sandman after Striker insulted him.[19][20] Striker made his in-ring debut for the brand on the September 19, 2006 episode of ECW, when his team of Mike Knox and Test were defeated by Tommy Dreamer, Sabu, and The Sandman when Test was disqualified for pushing the referee.[21] Striker continued his feud with The Sandman until the October 17 episode of ECW, when The Sandman defeated him in a Singapore Cane on a Pole match.[22][23]

On February 6, Striker aligned himself with Mr. McMahon's New Breed stable, along with Elijah Burke, Kevin Thorn, and Marcus Cor Von.[24] The New Breed immediately engaged themselves in a feud with the ECW Originals (Rob Van Dam, Tommy Dreamer, Sabu and The Sandman).[25][26] At WrestleMania 23, the New Breed was defeated by the ECW Originals in an 8-man tag team match, but won a rematch on the following episode of ECW.[27][28] In the midst of the feud, tension began to appear between the leader Elijah Burke and Striker, after Striker and Cor Von were defeated by the debuting Major Brothers.[29] As a result, Striker began trying to avenge the loss to the Major Brothers and defeated Brett Major on the May 22 episode of ECW.[30] The feud with the ECW Originals lost momentum, however, as Sabu was released from his WWE contract in mid-May, and the feud ended at the One Night Stand pay-per-view, when Striker, Cor Von, and Burke lost to Dreamer, Sandman, and CM Punk in a tables match.[31][32]
On June 12, Striker was defeated by The Boogeyman in a singles match, and two weeks later, The Boogeyman attacked him during an edition of Piper's Pit.[33][34] On July 10, Striker invited Boogeyman to the ring, allowing the debuting Big Daddy V to attack him.[35] Striker then formed an alliance with Big Daddy V that lasted until March 2008, acting as Big Daddy V's manager and regularly accompanying him to the ring.[36][37] In November, Striker and Big Daddy V started a feud with Kane, after Kane attacked Striker.[38] Striker and Big Daddy V wrestled Kane in a handicap match, and the pair also aligned briefly with Mark Henry.[39] Henry helped Big Daddy V win a match against Kane on the November 27 episode of ECW, and in return, Striker refereed a match between Henry and The Undertaker, refusing to count a pinfall against Henry.[40][41]
Commentator and host (2008–2013)
[edit]As part of the 2008 WWE Supplemental Draft in June 2008, Striker was drafted back to the Raw brand.[42] After a brief stint, Striker returned to ECW to take over duties as color commentator, debuting on August 5.[43][44] Striker and his commentary partner, Todd Grisham, won the 2008 Slammy Award for the Announce Team of the Year for 2008.[45] In April 2009, however, Grisham was moved to the SmackDown brand, and Josh Mathews debuted as the new play-by-play commentator.[46][47] In addition to commentating on ECW on SyFy and ECW pay-per-view matches, Striker and Mathews represented the ECW brand on WWE Superstars every week.[48]
On October 27, 2009, it was announced that Striker would move from commentary on ECW to SmackDown, reuniting with Grisham. The move was made to help accommodate Jim Ross, who had been taking time off to deal with his recent Bell's palsy attack.[49] The following October, Striker and Grisham were joined by Michael Cole on SmackDown, forming a three-man announce team.[50] Striker, however, was replaced in early February 2011 by Booker T.[51]
Striker began hosting NXT in early 2010.[52] He wrestled his first match in three years on the August 2, 2011 episode of NXT, teaming with Titus O'Neil in a winning effort against Derrick Bateman and Darren Young in a tag team match.[53] He fought Young in the next two weeks, but Young emerged victorious both times.[54][55] Striker later teamed up with William Regal to face Young and JTG, but Striker and Regal were unsuccessful.[56] Meanwhile, as NXT host, Striker was frequently bullied by Curt Hawkins and Tyler Reks,[57] The storyline included his "kidnapping" on the March 21 episode of NXT Redemption by unknown persons,[58] later revealed to be Hawkins and Reks.[59] During this time, Striker also continued to commentate on Superstars, with the explanation given being that to keep his kidnapping a secret, WWE hired a body double to assume Striker's duties.[60] Striker was later "rescued" on the April 11 episode NXT Redemption.[61] Striker ceased his role as NXT host with the conclusion of NXT Redemption.[62][63][64]
After hosting NXT, Striker began interviewing WWE employees on Raw and SmackDown. During the summer of 2012, Striker became the host of WWE Afterburn for international broadcasts. On the October 12 SmackDown, Striker tried to interview Team Hell No (Kane and Daniel Bryan), but they both attacked him.[65] On the October 15 episode of Raw, Striker demanded that he receive an apology and was instead forced to face Kane in his final WWE match, which Striker lost.[66] On June 20, 2013, Striker departed WWE after the company opted to not renew his contract.[67]
Independent circuit (2013–present)
[edit]On June 21, Striker made his first post-WWE appearance, by appearing on Family Wrestling Entertainment iPPV, FWE Rumble in Queens, New York as a color commentator.[68] On October 21, 2013, Striker was defeated by Justin Credible in NYWC's House of Madness. After the match, Striker nailed Credible, causing him to bleed. Backstage, Striker tried to apologize but Credible cursed him out in the locker room and stormed off.[69] In July 2013, Championship Wrestling from Hollywood (CWFH) announced Striker as the new announcer of the promotion on MAVTV.[70] On November 2, 2013, Striker made his in ring debut for CWFH, unsuccessfully challenging Scorpio Sky for the CWFH Heritage Heavyweight Championship.[71]
On March 14, 2014, Striker took part in German promotion Westside Xtreme Wrestling's 16 Carat Gold weekend. On March 15, Striker and Trent? defeated Hot & Spicy (Axel Dieter Jr. and Da Mack) to win the wXw World Tag Team Championship.[72] They lost the title to Hot & Spicy the following day.[73] From July 18 to August 2, 2014, Striker took part in Pro Wrestling Noah's 2014 NTV G+ Cup Junior Heavyweight Tag League, where he and partner Super Crazy finished with a record of two wins and two losses, failing to advance to the finals.[74]
Lucha Underground (2014–2018)
[edit]On September 5, 2014, it was reported that Striker had signed with Lucha Underground as the lead English language announcer, alongside Vampiro.[75] Striker and Vampiro provided English language commentary from the show's debut in 2014 to its conclusion in 2018.[76]
International commentator (2015–present)
[edit]Striker, along with Vampiro, served as one half of the English language commentators for AAA's Lucha Libre World Cup internet pay-per-view on May 24, 2015.[77] On August 9, 2015, Striker returned to AAA English language commentary alongside Hugo Savinovich for AAA's Triplemanía XXIII pay-per-view.[78]
Striker and Jim Ross served as the English language commentators for New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW)'s Wrestle Kingdom 9 in Tokyo Dome pay-per-view on January 4, 2015.[79] On October 12, Striker returned to NJPW to provide English commentary on King of Pro-Wrestling, this time working alongside long-time Ring of Honor commentator Kevin Kelly.[80] The following year, Striker returned to NJPW English commentary at Wrestle Kingdom 10 in Tokyo Dome on January 4, 2016, again working alongside Kelly, as well as NJPW wrestler Yoshitatsu.[81]
Impact Wrestling (2021–2022)
[edit]Striker began to work as a commentator for Impact Wrestling in January 2021, along with D'Lo Brown. He left the promotion in January 2022.[82]
Other media
[edit]Matt Striker is currently the co-host of Bettor's Eye on The MLB Network.
Kaye was a child actor and had roles in the films Wise Guys and Child Savers.[2] In 2011, Kaye appeared in the films Big Fat Gyspy Gangster and Tezz in uncredited roles.
In early 2018, he joined FITE TV. Kaye can be seen on FITE In Focus analyzing combat sports events such as MMA, Boxing and Bare Knuckle fighting.
In 2019, Kaye continued his work in the sports broadcasting industry hosting shows such as "The Fantasy Baseball Hour, "Fantasy Sports Today", "Pro Football Rewind" and "Diamond Bets."
He has also hosted Sirius XM Fantasy Sports Radio programs.
Kaye was a writer and cast member of the Labor of Love dating game show that began airing on Fox on May 21, 2020. The eight-episode series features fifteen men participating in challenges and dates that test their parenting and personal skills. Those whom contestant Kristy Katzmann finds satisfactory will continue to advance to the following episode, until the end of the series, where she will decide – with the help of the show's host, actress Kristin Davis – whether to choose one of the men to start a family with or not.[83][84][85]
Filmography
[edit]| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1986 | Wise Guys | Harry Valentini Jr. |
| 1988 | The Child Saver | Marty |
| 2011 | Big Fat Gypsy Gangster | Riot Officer (uncredited) |
| 2012 | Tezz | CO19 Officer (uncredited) |
| 2017 | After School Special | Detective Lockhorn |
| 2019 | Sensory Perception | Marco |
Personal life
[edit]Kaye earned a Bachelor's degree in History and went on to obtain a Master's degree with distinction (3.9GPA or higher) in educational psychology.[2] He began working as a high school teacher after college. He once worked part-time as a substitute, filling in when other teachers were on leave.[3] In mid-2004, he was hired full-time as a social studies teacher at Benjamin N. Cardozo High School in Queens, New York, but wrestled part-time during his vacation time and on weekends.
Kaye played semi-pro hockey and has studied jiu-jitsu, catch wrestling, and boxing.[2] He has quoted scriptures on air from various sacred texts including, Torah, Quran, and the Vedas.[2][9]
Championships and accomplishments
[edit]- Assault Championship Wrestling
- Coastal Championship Wrestling
- CCW Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Will Austin[87]
- DDT Pro-Wrestling
- East Coast Wrestling Association
- ECWA Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Ace Darling[90]
- Jersey Championship Wrestling
- JCW Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Ace Darling[91]
- High Impact Wrestling Canada
- LDN Wrestling
- LDN Capital Wrestling Championship (1 time)
- New York Wrestling Connection
- Premier Wrestling Federation
- PWF Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Josh Daniels[2]
- Pro Wrestling Illustrated
- Pro Wrestling Noah
- NTV G+ Cup Junior Heavyweight Tag League Technique Award (2014) – with Super Crazy[93]
- Total Professional Wrestling
- USA Pro Wrestling
- USA Pro Tag Team Championship (2 times) – with Simon Diamond[90]
- West Coast Wrestling Connection
- Westside Xtreme Wrestling
- World Wrestling Entertainment
- Slammy Award (1 time)
- Announce Team of the Year (2008) – with Todd Grisham[45]
- Slammy Award (1 time)
- Wrestling Observer Newsletter
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- ^ White, Peter (April 15, 2020). "Fox Gives Birth To Kristin Davis-Hosted Reality Series Labor Of Love From Propagate & Full Picture". Deadline Hollywood. Archived from the original on May 9, 2020. Retrieved May 4, 2020.
- ^ Otterson, Joe (May 18, 2020). "Kristin Davis to Host Unscripted Pregnancy Dating Series Labor of Love at Fox". Variety. Archived from the original on April 28, 2020. Retrieved May 4, 2020.
- ^ Tsakiries, Phil (2004). "ACW Tag Team Title History". Solie's Title Histories. Archived from the original on August 9, 2017. Retrieved June 8, 2017.
- ^ "CCW Tag Team Championship « Titles Database « CAGEMATCH - the Internet Wrestling Database". Archived from the original on April 29, 2016. Retrieved June 25, 2020.
- ^ "Ironman Heavymetalweight Title". Wrestling-Titles.com. Archived from the original on July 29, 2017. Retrieved August 12, 2016.
- ^ "海外絶賛流出中のアイアンマンヘビーメタル級王座の動向<3月31日分>". DDT Pro-Wrestling (in Japanese). Archived from the original on April 2, 2017. Retrieved April 2, 2017.
- ^ a b c d "Title History". CageMatch. Archived from the original on November 7, 2021. Retrieved June 8, 2017.
- ^ "GCW Tag Team Championship". cagematch.net. Retrieved April 18, 2024.
- ^ "Pro Wrestling Illustrated Top 500 – 2006". Pro Wrestling Illustrated. Wrestling Information Archive. Archived from the original on February 6, 2007. Retrieved June 28, 2008.
- ^ "「第8回日テレG+杯争奪ジュニア・ヘビー級タッグリーグ戦」各賞発表" (in Japanese). Pro Wrestling Noah. August 3, 2014. Archived from the original on August 11, 2014. Retrieved August 3, 2014.
- ^ "WCWC Pacific Northwest Championship". Wrestling-Titles.com. Archived from the original on August 8, 2017. Retrieved August 10, 2017.
- ^ Meltzer, Dave (January 26, 2011). "Biggest issue of the year: The 2011 Wrestling Observer Newsletter Awards Issue". Wrestling Observer Newsletter. Campbell, CA: 1–40. ISSN 1083-9593.
External links
[edit]- Matt Striker's profile at WWE , Cagematch , Internet Wrestling Database
- Matthew Kaye at IMDb
Matt Striker
View on GrokipediaEarly life and background
Education and teaching career
Matthew Kaye, known professionally as Matt Striker, was born on June 26, 1974, in Queens, New York, where he grew up immersed in the city's vibrant culture and developed an early interest in sports like hockey and football.[7][8][9] Kaye pursued higher education with a focus on history and teaching, earning a bachelor's degree in history followed by a master's degree in educational psychology.[10][9] These qualifications prepared him for a career in education, reflecting his passion for imparting knowledge and engaging young minds. From around 2000, Kaye worked as a substitute teacher in the New York City public school system, eventually securing a full-time position as a social studies and global history teacher at Benjamin N. Cardozo High School in Bayside, Queens, in mid-2004.[6][11][12] He taught ninth- and tenth-grade students, employing an unconventional and energetic style to captivate his classes, such as jumping on desks to demonstrate historical events or impersonating figures like Abraham Lincoln to bring lessons to life.[13] One notable anecdote involved a field trip where Kaye demonstrated wrestling moves to a student who had discovered his secret double life, blending his teaching enthusiasm with his athletic pursuits in a way that foreshadowed his later professional persona.[13] He also navigated challenging classroom dynamics, including managing gossip and strong personalities among students and colleagues, experiences that echoed the interpersonal navigation required in other high-stakes environments.[14] In early 2005, after approximately six months in his full-time role, Kaye resigned from Cardozo High School amid an investigation into his use of 11 sick days for professional wrestling commitments, choosing instead to pursue wrestling full-time following initial success on the independent circuit.[6][11][12] This transition marked the end of his teaching career and the origins of his "teacher" gimmick in professional wrestling.[13]Entry into professional wrestling
Striker's entry into professional wrestling was marked by dedicated training under veteran instructors Jody Hamilton, known as Assassin #1, and Johnny Rodz at the World of Unpredictable Wrestling school in Brooklyn, New York. Hamilton emphasized adaptability and ring psychology, while Rodz focused on hands-on fundamentals, preparing Striker for the rigors of the industry. This foundational period in the late 1990s equipped him with essential skills, drawing from his lifelong passion for the sport inspired by New York wrestling legends.[14] He made his professional debut in 2000 on the independent circuit, initially performing under the ring name Matthew Kaye before transitioning to variations like Matt Rite, Matt Martel, and Muscles Marinara. These early matches allowed him to build experience across regional promotions, including the East Coast Wrestling Association (ECWA) in Delaware and New York Wrestling Connection (NYWC), where he faced established talents such as Tommy Dreamer. His appearances in Chaotic Wrestling and Ring of Honor further honed his in-ring presence during this formative phase.[15][16][14] In these indie storylines, Striker began experimenting with early iterations of his teacher persona, leveraging his real-life background as an educator to create a know-it-all character that blended intellectual arrogance with physical prowess. This gimmick, refined through trial and error in smaller venues, set the stage for his later developments and distinguished him amid the competitive Northeast scene.[14]Professional wrestling career
Independent circuit beginnings (2000–2005)
Matt Striker began his professional wrestling career on the independent circuit in 2001, primarily working in the Northeast United States, where he competed in promotions such as NWA Cyberspace, the East Coast Wrestling Association (ECWA), and Jersey All Pro Wrestling (JAPW).[3][14] In these early years, Striker, performing under his ring name, established himself as a reliable midcard performer, often teaming with partners like Ace Darling in ECWA, where they captured the ECWA Tag Team Championship on February 22, 2003, holding it until September 6, 2003.[3] His appearances in JAPW included a high-profile title challenge on April 5, 2002, against champion Dixie, who retained the JAPW Heavyweight Championship in a match that showcased Striker's technical style against established talent.[3] Striker's notable rivalries during this period added depth to his portfolio, particularly his encounters with Low Ki and Xavier. On July 13, 2002, in JAPW, Xavier defeated Striker in a singles match that highlighted their contrasting styles—Xavier's high-flying aggression against Striker's ground-based approach.[3] Similarly, on February 7, 2004, at a Pro Wrestling WORLD-1 event, Low Ki bested Striker in a hard-fought bout, part of a series of competitive clashes that tested Striker's resilience and helped build his reputation in regional tournaments and multi-man matches across the circuit.[3] These feuds, often intertwined with tag team opportunities, such as a four-way tag match in JAPW on May 4, 2002, involving Low Ki and Xavier, underscored Striker's versatility in both solo and partnership roles.[3] Throughout 2000–2005, Striker refined his on-screen persona as an arrogant educator, drawing from his real-life background as a social studies teacher in Queens, New York; this gimmick manifested in promos where he belittled opponents as "students" needing correction, evolving through segments in promotions like ECWA and JAPW to emphasize intellectual superiority over brute force.[14] To manage his dual roles, Striker limited wrestling to weekend bookings across the Northeast, using accumulated sick days from his teaching position—totaling 11 in one year—to attend events without immediate detection, a schedule that strained his professional life until media coverage in 2005 forced his resignation.[11][14] This balancing act not only sustained his indie momentum but also amplified his unique appeal, blending classroom authority with in-ring intensity.[11]WWE tenure (2005–2013)
In July 2005, Matt Striker signed a developmental contract with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), marking the beginning of his eight-year association with the company.[3] Following the signing, Striker was assigned to WWE's developmental territory, Deep South Wrestling (DSW), where he primarily worked as enhancement talent to help elevate other performers while honing his in-ring skills. Over time, he transitioned into a midcard role within DSW, competing in matches that showcased his technical ability and emerging teacher gimmick, which drew from his real-life background as an educator.[17][18] Throughout his WWE tenure, Striker contributed across multiple brands, including Raw, ECW, and SmackDown, participating in the brand split dynamics by appearing in inter-brand storylines and events. He evolved from an active in-ring competitor, where he engaged in numerous televised matches against established stars, to a multifaceted performer taking on managerial and on-air roles. By 2008, Striker shifted primarily to commentary and hosting duties, providing color analysis that highlighted his wrestling knowledge and quick wit, while occasionally returning to the ring for select bouts. This progression underscored his versatility within WWE's ecosystem, supporting both athletic and narrative elements of programming.[19] Striker's contract with WWE was not renewed in June 2013, leading to his departure after nearly eight years with the organization. The decision was framed as part of WWE's strategic growth and investment in new talent directions, though Striker later reflected on it as an emotional parting akin to losing a family member, given his deep sense of belonging within the company. In the immediate aftermath, he expressed gratitude for the opportunities provided and optimism about future endeavors in wrestling, voice work, and education, while noting he had anticipated the change due to reduced on-screen appearances in the preceding months.[20][14]ECW revival and role (2006–2008)
In 2006, following his signing with WWE earlier that year, Matt Striker was assigned to the revived ECW brand as a heel wrestler and occasional manager, leveraging his established teacher persona to contrast with the promotion's hardcore ethos.[19] His in-ring debut took place on the September 19 episode of ECW on Sci Fi, where he teamed with Mike Knox and Test to defeat Tommy Dreamer, Sabu, and The Sandman in a six-man tag team match.[1] This appearance positioned Striker as part of the emerging "New Breed" faction, a group of younger talents feuding with the veteran ECW Originals.[14] Striker's ECW run featured several high-profile feuds, particularly against Originals like Rob Van Dam and The Sandman, often in tag team formats emphasizing the brand's extreme style. On October 3, 2006, he partnered with ECW World Champion Big Show to defeat The Sandman and Sabu in a tag team bout, with Striker securing the pinfall after Big Show's interference.[21] The rivalry with The Sandman escalated to a Singapore Cane on a Pole match on the October 17 episode of ECW on Sci Fi, where Striker lost after failing to retrieve the weapon amid the hardcore stipulations.[22] He also clashed with Rob Van Dam in multi-man tags, such as the October 10, 2006, encounter where Striker, alongside Big Show and Test, faced RVD, Sabu, and The Sandman, highlighting his role in building tension between factions.[23] Regarding championship pursuits, Striker competed against champion Bobby Lashley in a non-title singles match on the November 21, 2006, episode of ECW on Sci Fi, positioning him as a mid-card challenger in the division though he did not capture the ECW World Championship.[24] At December to Dismember on December 3, 2006, Striker faced Balls Mahoney under "Striker's Rules" (banning eye gouges, hair pulling, top-rope moves, and closed fists), losing via disqualification after Mahoney's retaliation, which underscored his attempts to impose order in ECW's chaotic environment.[25] Throughout his ECW tenure, Striker adapted his condescending teacher gimmick to the brand's extreme setting, portraying himself as an intellectual out of place among "uneducated" brawlers and assigning symbolic "homework" to opponents in promos to mock their styles—such as challenging The Sandman to study proper wrestling technique before their hardcore clashes.[26] This persona amplified his heel heat, with Striker often entering matches in argyle attire while delivering lectures, blending educational taunts with physical confrontations in stipulation bouts like tables and extreme rules encounters tied to New Breed storylines.[14] By 2008, as WWE began scaling back ECW's prominence amid shifting brand priorities, Striker's in-ring opportunities diminished, leading to his transition to color commentator for the brand starting on the August 5 episode of ECW on Sci Fi, effectively concluding his full-time wrestling role within the revival.[5] This shift reflected the broader winding down of ECW's unique identity, with Striker later reflecting on the period as a formative but challenging chapter that honed his understanding of the promotion's legacy.[14]WWE commentary and hosting (2008–2013)
In 2008, Matt Striker transitioned from in-ring competition to broadcasting roles within WWE, debuting as a color commentator on the August 5 episode of ECW on Sci Fi by filling in for Tazz alongside play-by-play announcer Todd Grisham.[27] His performance earned praise from Tazz, who noted Striker's potential as a WWE announcer if he chose to pursue it full-time.[27] Striker continued in this capacity for the ECW brand, providing color commentary during matches and segments, including a notable Striker's Classroom edition on the April 29 episode where he questioned the knowledge of SmackDown's incoming color commentator.[28] By December 2008, he served as the official ECW commentator at the Armageddon pay-per-view event.[29] Striker and Grisham's ECW commentary team proved successful, culminating in their win of the Slammy Award for Best Announce Team at the 2008 Slammy Awards ceremony on the December 8 episode of Raw, with the duo later recapping the year's highlights on ECW on Sci Fi.[30] He expanded his broadcasting duties to WWE Superstars, offering color commentary alongside Josh Mathews to cover matches from various brands.[1] In early 2010, Striker briefly handled color commentary for SmackDown episodes, including during WrestleMania week when he joined Michael Cole and Booker T on the March 30 broadcast. On the February 23, 2010, premiere of the revamped WWE NXT, Striker was introduced as the show's host, overseeing rookie challenges, interviews with WWE Pros, and poll announcements throughout the season.[31] He conducted on-air interviews with NXT participants, such as NXT Rookie Skip Sheffield and the WWE Pros panel, while facilitating segments like promo challenges and physical tasks.[32] Following the conclusion of his NXT hosting duties, Striker shifted to backstage interviewer roles on Raw and SmackDown starting in late 2010, conducting post-match conversations and exclusive segments, including a tense exchange with Kane after his disqualification win over Dolph Ziggler on the October 12, 2012, episode of SmackDown.[33] Striker's commentary style was characterized by enthusiasm and a deep knowledge of wrestling history, though it drew mixed reactions from fans and peers for its intensity.[34] In a 2024 interview, he reflected on the role as a fulfilling evolution from wrestling, crediting hands-on guidance from Vince McMahon and Kevin Dunn during three-to-five-hour weekly sessions as key to his growth as an announcer.[14] By 2010, Striker had fully committed to behind-the-scenes positions, contributing to WWE.com exclusives and pay-per-view backstage coverage until his contract expired in August 2013.[14]Return to independent circuit (2013–2020)
Following his release from WWE in June 2013, Matt Striker resumed wrestling on the independent circuit with appearances in Northeast promotions, including a six-person tag team match at the CZW/PWG WrestleCon 2014 event on April 5 in New Orleans, Louisiana, where he teamed with Adam Pearce and Steve Corino but lost to Cassidy Reilly, Luke Hawx, and Shane Helms.[16] He engaged in sporadic in-ring bouts as a veteran performer, such as a singles loss to Fallah Bahh in WrestlePro on January 7, 2017, at the Columbia Club in Union County, New Jersey.[35] Striker took on mentorship roles for emerging talent through wrestling seminars, including one at the Warriors of Wrestling Training Center in Staten Island, New York, on January 28, 2019, where he shared insights on professional wrestling techniques and career advice.[36] His work extended to promotions like WrestlePro, where he participated in events such as the Dream Sixteen Tournament, facing opponents like Anthony Bowens in a 2016 bout that highlighted his continued presence as a draw for veteran-vs.-prospect matchups.[37] By 2017, Striker shifted his primary focus from in-ring competition to commentary, providing play-by-play and analysis for various independent shows, which allowed him to leverage his extensive knowledge while reducing physical demands.[14] This transition marked a strategic evolution in his career amid the rigors of the indie scene. Throughout this period, Striker navigated financial instability, often calculating bookings meticulously and relying on a mix of wrestling gigs, teaching, and emerging media opportunities to maintain stability post-WWE.[14] The constant travel across regional promotions exacerbated these challenges, contributing to an unpredictable schedule typical of independent wrestling.[14]Lucha Underground involvement (2014–2019)
Matt Striker joined Lucha Underground as the lead English-language play-by-play commentator in September 2014, partnering with color commentator Vampiro for the promotion's debut season on the El Rey Network.[38] His hiring came after a period on the independent circuit, where his versatile announcing experience made him a fit for the show's innovative, narrative-driven format.[39] The series premiered on October 29, 2014, with Striker and Vampiro calling the action from the fictional Temple in Boyle Heights, California, setting a tone that blended high-stakes wrestling with serialized storytelling.[40] Over the course of four seasons, Striker voiced commentary for more than 100 episodes, contributing to the promotion's distinctive cinematic style that incorporated elements of Aztec mythology, supernatural lore, and intense athleticism.[41] His on-screen presence was primarily behind the announce desk, where he occasionally participated in segments tied to the overarching storylines, such as reacting to mystical artifacts and godly interventions that drove major arcs involving characters like the Cueto family and ancient deities.[42] While Striker did not compete in matches during his tenure, his role extended to hyping key events like Aztec Warfare battle royals and Ultima Lucha specials, enhancing the immersive world-building.[43] Striker's commentary style was marked by enthusiastic, metaphor-rich calls that captured the spectacle of high-flying maneuvers and otherworldly elements, often expressing genuine excitement—famously captured in phrases like "I'm marking out, bro"—to draw viewers into the action.[44] This dynamic partnership with Vampiro, who brought insider lucha libre knowledge and a gritty edge, created a complementary booth that balanced educational insights with raw energy, helping to elevate matches featuring aerial innovators like Prince Puma and Fenix.[45] Lucha Underground's production halted after Season 4 concluded in 2018, entering an indefinite hiatus in 2019 amid financial difficulties and distribution challenges with the El Rey Network, which ultimately ceased operations at the end of 2020.[46] This effectively ended Striker's involvement with the promotion, though taped episodes from the unbroadcast Season 5 surfaced online in later years without his live commentary.[47]International commentary work (2015–present)
In 2015, Matt Striker began providing English-language commentary for New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) events streamed on NJPW World, marking his entry into international broadcasting. He partnered with Jim Ross for the flagship Wrestle Kingdom 9 event at Tokyo Dome on January 4, 2015, delivering play-by-play and color analysis for the annual January 4 Tokyo Dome show. Later that year, Striker teamed with Kevin Kelly for the King of Pro-Wrestling event on October 12, 2015, contributing to NJPW's efforts to expand its global audience through accessible English audio tracks.[48][49] Striker returned for Wrestle Kingdom 10 on January 4, 2016, again alongside Kelly and occasional input from Yoshitatsu, helping to narrate key matches and cultural elements of the promotion's strong style for Western viewers. His NJPW tenure, spanning select major events from 2015 to 2016, emphasized adapting explanations of Japanese wrestling traditions, such as the emphasis on athleticism and storyline depth, to international audiences while maintaining the promotion's authentic presentation. During Japanese tours, Striker noted the challenge of balancing tradition with market expansion, such as modified production elements for U.S. viewers without compromising the core product.[50][14] Parallel to his NJPW roles, Striker took on English commentary duties for Mexico's Asistencia Asesoría y Administración (AAA) starting in 2015, focusing on high-profile pay-per-views. He called the inaugural Lucha Libre World Cup on May 24, 2015, with Vampiro, highlighting the tournament's international team format and high-flying lucha libre action. That August, Striker paired with Hugo Savinovich for Triplemanía XXIII on August 9, 2015, providing insights into AAA's dramatic storytelling and cultural significance in Mexican wrestling. This partnership with Vampiro evolved into a staple for AAA events, allowing Striker to navigate nuances like rapid-paced matches and promo styles rooted in lucha tradition.[9] Striker's AAA involvement has continued into the 2020s, with ongoing English commentary for major shows streamed globally. In 2025, he rejoined Vampiro for Triplemanía XXXIII on August 16 in Mexico City, broadcast live on Twitch, where they covered the event's marquee matches and evolving crossover appeal. His approach in these broadcasts often involves real-time adaptation to crowd energy and regional storytelling, drawing from his WWE experience to enhance accessibility without overshadowing local flair.[51][52] Beyond Japan and Mexico, Striker expanded to European promotions, debuting as a commentator for the UK-based WhatCulture Pro Wrestling (WCPW) in early 2017. He joined Alex Shane at the announce desk for events like the World Cup English Qualifiers, offering enthusiastic calls that incorporated British indie scene dynamics and wrestler backgrounds for a transatlantic audience. This work exemplified Striker's versatility in handling diverse promotion styles, from structured tournaments to high-energy indie formats.[53]Major League Wrestling role (2020–present)
Matt Striker returned to Major League Wrestling (MLW) in October 2022 as the lead play-by-play commentator, marking a significant evolution in his role with the promotion where he had previously debuted as a wrestler in 2003 and provided occasional commentary in 2018.[54] Partnering with color commentator Joe Dombrowski, Striker quickly established himself as the primary voice for MLW's broadcasts, bringing his extensive wrestling knowledge and enthusiastic delivery to the team's dynamic.[55] Striker's major contributions include calling the action for MLW's flagship weekly program Fusion, as well as high-profile events such as Battle Riot and Kings of Colosseum. By November 2025, he had provided commentary for over 150 episodes of MLW programming, helping to narrate pivotal storylines and matches that define the promotion's hybrid wrestling style.[56] His work emphasizes in-depth analysis and hype-building, drawing on his background as a former wrestler to connect with audiences. From 2023 to 2025, Striker covered MLW's ongoing expansion within the U.S., including major title changes at events like Fury Road and One Shot, where championships such as the MLW World Heavyweight Title exchanged hands in intense contests.[57] While MLW focused primarily on domestic tours, Striker's commentary highlighted the promotion's growth through partnerships and increased event frequency. He has remained exclusively behind the announce desk during this period, with no on-screen managerial appearances. Striker's tenure has been credited with elevating viewer engagement through his passionate and knowledgeable calls, contributing to MLW's sustained popularity on platforms like YouTube and beIN Sports. His contract with the promotion has been extended through at least 2025, solidifying his position as a cornerstone of MLW's broadcast team.[58]Impact Wrestling stint (2021–2022)
In January 2021, Matt Striker joined Impact Wrestling as a color commentator alongside D'Lo Brown, debuting at the Hard to Kill pay-per-view event on January 16.[59][60] His hiring filled a vacancy in the broadcast team following previous changes, allowing him to contribute his extensive wrestling knowledge to the promotion's weekly television programming and special events.[60] Throughout 2021, Striker provided commentary for major Impact Wrestling pay-per-views, including Slammiversary on July 17, where he called key matches such as the Ultimate X bout for the X Division Championship, and Bound for Glory on October 23, highlighting title defenses and high-profile confrontations.[61] He also engaged with the roster during broadcasts, such as discussing storylines involving top stars like Moose during segments on Impact's AXS TV episodes. His role emphasized energetic play-by-play analysis and historical context for matches, contributing to the promotion's coverage of events like the ongoing championship pursuits and faction rivalries.[62] Striker's tenure with Impact Wrestling concluded in early January 2022, following approximately one year of service on the commentary team.[63] He announced his departure via social media on January 5, which was later confirmed by company sources, marking the end of his brief stint with the promotion.[64]Other media appearances
Film and television roles
Matthew Kaye, known professionally as Matt Striker, began his acting career as a child, appearing in two early projects that showcased his initial foray into film and television. In the 1986 crime comedy Wise Guys, directed by Brian De Palma, Kaye portrayed Harry Jr., the son of a mobster played by Danny DeVito. This role marked his debut in feature films. Two years later, he starred as Marty in the ABC TV movie The Child Saver (1988), a drama about juvenile justice and mentorship, opposite Alfre Woodard and Michael Warren. These early appearances highlighted Kaye's youthful talent before he pursued a career in professional wrestling. Transitioning to adult roles, Kaye took on a variety of supporting and uncredited parts, often in independent films, while leveraging his WWE visibility from 2005 onward to secure opportunities in genre entertainment. In the 2002 indie wrestling comedy Wrestlemaniac, a satirical take on aspiring professional wrestlers, he appeared as himself, blending his ring persona with on-screen action as part of a story about tag-team brothers chasing WWE dreams.[65] His WWE tenure provided exposure that facilitated cameos in action thrillers, such as uncredited roles as a Riot Officer in the British crime comedy Big Fat Gypsy Gangster (2011) and as a CO19 Officer in the Bollywood-inspired action film Tezz (2012).[66][67] In the late 2010s, Kaye expanded into more prominent supporting roles in low-budget independent cinema, frequently portraying authoritative figures that echoed his wrestling character as a stern teacher. He played Detective Lockhorn in the 2017 high school thriller After School Special, investigating a murder among students, a role that played into themes of discipline and authority.[68] That same year, in the holiday comedy Saving Christmas, Kaye reprised his Matt Striker persona in a cameo, contributing to the film's lighthearted, faith-based narrative about rediscovering holiday spirit.[69] His final credited acting role to date came in the 2019 sci-fi thriller Sensory Perception, where he portrayed Marco, a key figure in a story involving psychic phenomena and government conspiracy.[70] These performances often utilized Kaye's on-screen presence for comedic or dramatic tension, drawing on his teacher gimmick for relatable, no-nonsense characterizations. Beyond live-action, Kaye provided voice work in video games, voicing his own character, Matt Striker, in WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2010 (2009), where he delivered commentary lines during matches, enhancing the immersive wrestling simulation experience.[71] He also appeared in wrestling-themed documentaries, such as hosting segments in WWE: OMG! - The Top 50 Incidents in WWE History (2011), recounting chaotic moments from WWE lore. Overall, Kaye's filmography comprises approximately 10 credits across film, television, and interactive media, primarily in supporting capacities within independent and genre projects.| Year | Title | Role | Medium | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1986 | Wise Guys | Harry Jr. | Film | Child role; directed by Brian De Palma |
| 1988 | The Child Saver | Marty | TV Movie | Lead child role; ABC production |
| 2002 | Wrestlemaniac | Matt Striker | Film | Plays himself; indie wrestling comedy |
| 2011 | Big Fat Gypsy Gangster | Riot Officer | Film | Uncredited |
| 2012 | Tezz | CO19 Officer | Film | Uncredited; action thriller |
| 2009 | WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2010 | Matt Striker (voice) | Video Game | Commentary voice-over |
| 2011 | WWE: OMG! - The Top 50 Incidents in WWE History | Himself (host) | Documentary | WWE-produced special |
| 2017 | After School Special | Detective Lockhorn | Film | Supporting detective role |
| 2017 | Saving Christmas | Matt Striker | Film | Cameo as wrestling persona |
| 2019 | Sensory Perception | Marco | Film | Supporting role; sci-fi thriller |
Podcasting and voice work
Following his departure from WWE in 2013, Striker indicated plans to pursue opportunities in voice-over work and commercials, building on his established skills as a wrestling commentator.[20] Striker has made guest appearances on wrestling podcasts, offering insights into industry history and his career. In one such episode on the Pro Wrestling Post Podcast, he emphasized respect for wrestling pioneers and reflected on his multifaceted roles in the profession.[72] In 2021, Striker co-hosted the pre-show for Impact Wrestling's Hard to Kill event alongside Gia Miller, providing live commentary and analysis in an audio format.[73]Personal life
Family and residence
Matt Striker maintains a low profile regarding his family life, with very little public information available about his immediate relationships or home life. He has occasionally shared details from his early years, noting that his parents divorced when he was young, leading him to spend weekends with his father and weekdays with his mother.[74] In interviews following his 2013 release from WWE, Striker has alluded to the emotional difficulty of the event, comparing it to the loss of a family member, while emphasizing personal resilience through faith and close professional bonds rather than specific family support.[20] No verified details on a spouse or children have been disclosed, underscoring his preference for privacy amid a public career in wrestling commentary.[14] As of 2025, Striker's residence remains undisclosed in public records, though his ongoing role with Major League Wrestling, headquartered in New Rochelle, New York, suggests ties to the Northeast region near his Queens birthplace.Interests and philanthropy
Striker maintains a strong interest in wrestling history, frequently drawing on past events, wrestlers, and matches during his commentary to enrich broadcasts and educate audiences on the sport's evolution. His knowledge stems from a lifelong passion, as he has recounted improvising wrestling play-by-plays as a child using action figures and a tape recorder. This historical focus extends to his writing, where he authored the "Wrestling Lesson of the Week" series for WWE.com in the late 2000s, analyzing pivotal moments and figures from professional wrestling's past, such as Eric Embry's contributions in Texas territories.[14][75][76] Outside of wrestling, Striker pursues hobbies including playing guitar and drums, which he shares as common ground with peers like Vampiro, and he has a longstanding involvement in hockey, having played the sport throughout his life. Following injuries that curtailed his in-ring career, he adopted a disciplined fitness routine emphasizing recovery and maintenance to support his ongoing commentary roles, though specifics remain private. His background as a high school social studies teacher informs occasional reflections on education's value, but he has not publicly detailed formal support for teachers' unions.[14] In philanthropy, Striker has participated in WWE's charitable initiatives, including the 2007 Circle of Champions ceremony following the Great American Bash, where he joined other superstars in honoring Make-A-Wish children battling serious illnesses, an event that humbled participants through direct interactions with the honorees.[77] While no extensive records exist of independent charitable efforts, his involvement highlights a commitment to youth causes tied to his WWE tenure. From 2023 to 2025, he engaged in wrestling community discussions on mental health, sharing personal vulnerabilities like emotional responses to career setbacks to destigmatize the topic among performers.[78]Championships and accomplishments
Professional titles won
Throughout his professional wrestling career, Matt Striker has captured 15 championships across various independent promotions, predominantly in the northeastern United States during the early to mid-2000s. These titles, mostly from regional circuits, highlight his versatility as both a singles competitor and tag team specialist, though he never secured a major world heavyweight championship. His successes in these promotions helped elevate his profile on the indie scene, leading to opportunities in larger organizations like WWE.[1] Striker's most prominent singles title reign came in the New York Wrestling Connection (NYWC), where he won the NYWC Heavyweight Championship on April 30, 2005, by defeating Mike Mondo in the finals of a title tournament. He defended the belt successfully against challengers like Tony DeVito before losing it to Jerry Lynn on July 30, 2005, for a reign of 91 days. This accomplishment positioned Striker as a key figure in NYWC storylines, showcasing his technical skills and teacher gimmick in main event matches.[79][80] In tag team wrestling, Striker's longest reign was the Premier Wrestling Federation (PWF) Universal Tag Team Championship, held with partner Josh Daniels from April 13, 2003, to April 9, 2004—a duration of 362 days. The duo won the titles in a tournament final against Chi Chi Cruz and Rapid Fire Maldonado on April 13, 2003, and defended them against teams like The SAT and The American Made throughout their run, which advanced narratives around Striker's rise from undercard status to established midcard attraction in the promotion. Another notable tag reign was the East Coast Wrestling Association (ECWA) Tag Team Championship with Ace Darling, captured on February 22, 2003, and held for 196 days until September 6, 2003; this partnership emphasized Striker's adaptability in high-energy bouts, contributing to his growing reputation on the East Coast indie circuit.[80][3] Striker also achieved multiple tag team successes with Simon Diamond in USA Pro Wrestling, winning the USA Pro Tag Team Championship twice—first from May 31 to June 27, 2003, and again in 2004—using their coordinated offense to highlight underdog storylines against established pairs. His other singles titles include the NYWC Interstate Championship (held for 14 days in 2005), the Total Professional Wrestling (TPW) Light Heavyweight Championship (2000s reign), the USA Pro New York State Championship (early 2000s), the High Impact Wrestling (HIW) Wildside Provincial Championship (2010s), and the West Coast Wrestling Connection (WCWC) Pacific Northwest Championship (won June 10, 2017, held for 22 days). Additional tag titles encompass the Assault Championship Wrestling (ACW) Tag Team Championship with Scotty Charisma, Coastal Championship Wrestling (CCW) Tag Team Championship with Will Austin (won July 6, 2019, held for 350 days), NYWC Tag Team Championship with Rob Eckos (63 days in 2004), TPW Tag Team Championship with Red Flair, and Westside Xtreme Wrestling (wXw) World Tag Team Championship with Trent (won March 15, 2014). He further held the novelty DDT Ironman Heavymetalweight Championship twice in 2017 through battle royal victories. These reigns, often spanning 1-3 months except for his extended PWF and CCW runs, underscored Striker's reliability in building momentum for promotions without major national exposure. He also won the PWF Universal Tag Team Title Tournament in 2003 with Josh Daniels, the NYWC Title Shot Tournament in 2005, and the CCW Heavyweight Title Tournament in 2004.[1][80] Despite his indie achievements, Striker had no successful title pursuits during his WWE tenure from 2005 to 2013, including the ECW brand revival where he feuded prominently with icons like The Sandman and Balls Mahoney but fell short of championship contention, instead transitioning to commentary by 2008. This lack of major titles in WWE reflected his midcard positioning, though it paved the way for his post-wrestling career focus.[3][19]| Promotion | Title | Reigns | Key Dates/Details | Partner (if applicable) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York Wrestling Connection | NYWC Heavyweight Championship | 1 | Won: April 30, 2005 (vs. Mike Mondo); Lost: July 30, 2005 (to Jerry Lynn); 91 days | N/A |
| Premier Wrestling Federation | PWF Universal Tag Team Championship | 1 | Won: April 13, 2003 (tournament); Lost: April 9, 2004; 362 days | Josh Daniels |
| East Coast Wrestling Association | ECWA Tag Team Championship | 1 | Won: February 22, 2003; Lost: September 6, 2003; 196 days | Ace Darling |
| USA Pro Wrestling | USA Pro Tag Team Championship | 2 | 2003 and 2004 reigns; advanced underdog arcs | Simon Diamond |
| New York Wrestling Connection | NYWC Interstate Championship | 1 | 2005; 14 days | N/A |
| Total Professional Wrestling | TPW Light Heavyweight Championship | 1 | Early 2000s | N/A |
| DDT Pro-Wrestling | Ironman Heavymetalweight Championship | 2 | March/April 2017 (battle royals) | N/A |
| Westside Xtreme Wrestling | wXw World Tag Team Championship | 1 | Won: March 15, 2014 | Trent |
| Other (ACW, CCW, HIW, NYWC Tag, TPW Tag, USA Pro NY State, WCWC) | Various tag/singles | 8 total | Mid-2000s to 2010s; typical 1-3 month reigns | Various (e.g., Scotty Charisma, Rob Eckos) |
