During the early 2010s, Alex Riley was most known for being The Miz’s apprentice in “WWE NXT,” before eventually being called up to the main roster to accompany “The A-Lister” throughout his rise to becoming WWE Champion. However, Riley would get a chance to solidify himself as a singles star after betraying The Miz in 2011 and defeating him at Capitol Punishment, but a famous behind-the-scenes incident has unfortunately become what he’s most remembered for today.

Although multiple wrestlers and personalities have detailed several versions of the story, Riley reportedly engaged in a backstage altercation with John Cena, which effectively ended his push in WWE despite being popular with the fanbase. Between Cena being overly critical of Riley’s in-ring work, ribbing him backstage, and trying to take him under his wing, there’s been many different interpretations of what truly transpired between both stars. Ultimately, Riley seemingly stood up for himself whenever he felt that he was being mistreated, causing him to be involved in many controversies behind the curtain. 

After his singles push quickly diminished, Riley found himself on the commentary desk before eventually starting a social media campaign titled #FreeRiley, to help convince management to put him back in the ring. The campaign led him to return to “NXT” where he would feud with Kevin Owens, but the following year, Riley was rarely booked on television and was featured in a round of talent cuts after WrestleMania 32. Riley briefly returned to wrestling three years ago where he enjoyed a short run on the indie scene, but otherwise has remained inactive. That said, he has appeared during several interviews throughout the 2020s where he shares his perspective of his downfall in WWE.