Zack Ryder is dead. Long live Matt Cardona.
The “Indy God” made his shocking return to WWE programming on SmackDown, revealed as the mystery opponent for Kit Wilson. Unlike his brief appearance in the “Last Time is Now” tournament where he was billed as Zack Ryder, Cardona returned under his real name and the persona he cultivated during his dominant run on the independent circuit.
Cardona originally wrestled for WWE from 2005 to 2020 before his release. He spent the next five years reinventing himself, capturing major titles in the NWA and GCW, and competing in AEW, ROH, and TNA. Now firmly re-established in WWE, Cardona made it clear he is here to stay.
To coincide with his return, Cardona released new merchandise featuring the tagline “I’m Not Finished,” signaling his intent to climb to the top of the mountain on the blue brand.