In a shocking turn of events, Matt Cardona made a surprise return to WWE on the January 2, 2026 episode of SmackDown, sending shockwaves throughout the wrestling world. The move marked a thrilling comeback for the former star, who had been absent from the company for several years. In an exclusive interview, Cardona opened up about his return, revealing the circumstances that led him back to WWE.
A Surprising Homecoming
Cardona’s return was met with a mixture of excitement and confusion by fans and industry insiders alike. The former Zack Ryder had been a staple on WWE’s roster for nearly a decade, earning a reputation as a fan favorite with his high-flying moves and entertaining persona. However, after a falling out with the company, Cardona left WWE in 2018, paving the way for a successful run in various independent promotions.
According to sources close to Cardona, the door for his return was unexpectedly opened when a top WWE talent expressed interest in working with him. “Matt’s been on our radar for a while, and we’ve always been a fan of his work,” said a WWE insider. “When Cody Rhodes approached us about the possibility of bringing him back, we jumped at the chance. We’re excited to see what he brings to the table.”
A New Era for Cardona
So, what led Cardona to return to WWE at this juncture in his career? In an exclusive interview, the former star revealed that he had been presented with a unique opportunity to revive his character and take on a new challenge. “I’d been doing my own thing on the independent scene, and while it was great, I felt like I was missing out on the big-stage atmosphere that WWE provides,” Cardona said. “When the chance to return arose, I jumped at it. I’m excited to see where this new chapter takes me.”
Cardona’s return was met with a warm reception from fans, who were thrilled to see the former star back in action. His appearance on SmackDown was a testament to the enduring popularity of his character, and it will be interesting to see how WWE chooses to utilize him in the coming weeks and months.
The Future of Cardona in WWE
As Cardona settles back into his old routine, fans are eager to know what’s next for the former star. Will he team up with Cody Rhodes, with whom he has a long-standing friendship, or will he pursue a solo career? According to sources, Cardona is open to exploring various possibilities, including a potential tag team partnership with Rhodes.
While the specifics of Cardona’s future are still unclear, one thing is certain: his return to WWE marks an exciting new chapter in his career. With his trademark enthusiasm and charisma, Cardona is poised to make a lasting impact on the company. As he looks to the future, Cardona remains optimistic and focused on achieving his goals.
“I’m just happy to be back in the WWE fold,” Cardona said in a statement. “I’m ready to put in the work and prove myself all over again. I’m not looking back; I’m looking forward to seeing what the future holds.”