The shocking return of Zack Ryder on last week’s SmackDown appears to have been a “single-shot” appearance, as Matt Cardona has not signed a new contract with WWE.
A report from Fightful Select confirms that both WWE and Cardona have stated he is not under a performance contract. However, Cardona did sign a merchandise agreement with the company, which explains why “Zack Ryder” merchandise immediately appeared on WWEShop.com following his match.
Ryder returned on SmackDown as a surprise opponent for LA Knight in the “Last Time Is Now” tournament. Knight defeated Ryder to advance in the bracket.
The report also sheds light on why he was billed as Zack Ryder and not Matt Cardona, citing intellectual property. WWE owns the “Zack Ryder” name, and although Cardona attempted to trademark it in 2023 after it lapsed, WWE later refiled, preventing him from securing the rights.
