Matt Cardona, famously known to WWE fans as Zack Ryder, made a notable return to WWE on the November 14 episode of SmackDown. He competed as the mystery opponent for LA Knight in the “Last Time Is Now” tournament—a competition determining John Cena’s final opponent for his retirement match scheduled for December 13. Despite generating significant fan excitement, Cardona’s appearance was reportedly a one-time deal rather than signaling a full-time WWE contract signing.
A Surprise Return But No Signed WWE Deal Yet
According to multiple backstage sources, including Fightful Select, Matt Cardona has not signed a new WWE contract following his SmackDown return. WWE has instead arranged a merchandising deal to sell Zack Ryder-branded gear, explaining why WWE Shop has recently restocked Ryder merchandise. This agreement allows WWE to capitalize on the Zack Ryder persona without Cardona being a contracted WWE talent at this time[1][2][4].
A WWE insider told Wrestling News, “This was always meant to be a limited engagement—an opportunity for WWE to utilize a known name for a big spot on TV while keeping contractual obligations flexible. The merchandising deal is a separate arrangement that benefits both parties.” The insider added that WWE values Cardona’s contributions and fanbase but is still monitoring how things develop before offering anything more permanent.
Why Zack Ryder Instead of Matt Cardona?
The decision to use the Zack Ryder name instead of Matt Cardona on SmackDown stems from WWE owning the trademark to “Zack Ryder.” Cardona had attempted to regain the rights to his Zack Ryder moniker in 2023 but was unsuccessful, leaving WWE with control over the character and branding. Using this name on television connects more directly with WWE’s audience and leverages nostalgia, as Zack Ryder was the identity he used during his initial WWE tenure that began in 2005 and ran until his 2020 release[1][4].
In a WWE-produced video celebrating his return, Cardona reflected:
“Five years. It’s been five years since I put on Zack Ryder boots. Every single morning, before I even open my eyes, I ask, ‘How can I get back here? What do I have to do to get back here?’ It’s a dream to be back on that stage.”[1]
Cardona’s Post-WWE Journey: Building Stardom Outside WWE
Since his WWE release in April 2020, Matt Cardona has forged a highly successful career on the independent wrestling scene under his real name. He has worked for numerous promotions like All Elite Wrestling (AEW), Impact Wrestling (formerly TNA), and Game Changer Wrestling (GCW). His evolution into the “Indie God” and “Death Match King” has expanded his fanbase and reputation far beyond his WWE roots[1][4].
Despite not being under WWE contract, Cardona has remained hopeful and relentlessly worked toward regaining a place in WWE. Sources close to him shared, “Matt has busted his ass for five years, reinventing himself and proving he belongs on the national stage. This return was a reward for the hard work, even if it’s just a ‘one and done’ moment for now.”[2]
The Tournament and What’s Next
Cardona’s SmackDown match against LA Knight was a competitive outing but ultimately ended in a loss. Knight’s victory advances him in the “Last Time Is Now” tournament, which will decide John Cena’s final opponent on December 13 — a high-profile spotlight in WWE’s calendar[1][3].
While there’s no confirmed future date for Cardona returning as a wrestler on WWE programming, insiders suggest the door remains open. A WWE source commented, “Nothing is off the table. Matt’s performance and fan reaction definitely made waves backstage. The company appreciates what he can bring, especially the renewed buzz around Ryder merchandise.”[4]
Fan Reactions and WWE’s Strategic Use of Cardona’s Popularity
Fans reacted with overwhelming enthusiasm to Cardona’s televised return, with social media trending with “Woo Woo Woo” chants synonymous with his Zack Ryder character. WWE’s decision to release new official merchandise shortly after helped maximize this momentum.
Some wrestling analysts interpret WWE’s approach as a low-risk way to test the waters. By scheduling Cardona for a high-profile but brief appearance, WWE gauges fan interest and assesses potential storylines without immediately committing to a long-term contract.
Summary: A Return Filled with Potential But No Contract Yet
- Matt Cardona returned to WWE SmackDown on November 14 as Zack Ryder for the “Last Time Is Now” tournament[1].
- Despite his televised comeback, Cardona has not signed a new WWE contract, making the appearance a one-off for now[1][2][4].
- WWE has a merchandising agreement with Cardona, explaining the renewed availability of Zack Ryder gear via WWE Shop[2][4].
- The Zack Ryder brand remains WWE’s intellectual property, which is why Cardona used that persona and not his real name[1][4].
- Cardona’s independent career flourished post-WWE, enhancing his value and fanbase[1][4].
- Backstage sentiment indicates WWE is open to potential future engagement, pending further evaluation of Cardona’s role and fan interest[4].
In the coming weeks, WWE fans will closely watch whether this reconnecting moment leads to a longer revival of Zack Ryder on WWE programming or remains a memorable one-night special. For now, the door is ajar, and Cardona’s future in WWE stays an intriguing prospect.
Written by a professional wrestling journalist based on multiple backstage reports and industry insights.