Funnily enough, I see more people whining about Ridley supporters than those complaining that he isn't playable. As it turns out, fire doesn't extinguish fire. Regardless, the thread wasn't reopened for this reason and everyone here needs to realize that
We set ourselves up for disappointment sure, but maybe it was worth it. Looking back at all the evidence now, it still seemed quite reasonable to believe he was playable. Even now, it feels like he's just inches away from confirmation, all the assets seem to be there, but he's just not selectable. Ah well, that's the cost of hope.
Worse yet, Ridley being a stage hazard would seem to severly limit the likelihood that he's introduced as a DLC character, and I fear he'll be consigned unto oblivion like in the previous titles. Quite a shame, but not an unexpected one. There's still a chance though, as comical as that is. At the same time he was deconfirmed, Mewtwo was confirmed for DLC, so perhaps if there is enough support for him, being a stage hazard might not matter.
As for now, RIP in peace Ridley. ;_;