Matt Cardona is one of the most popular names in the world of professional wrestling. He has been a prominent talent for a long time and has given some spectacular matches over the years. Also known as the ‘Indy God’, Cardona is known for his overall charisma and in-ring presence. Matt certainly learned it the hard way after being with the WWE for more than 10 years.
Looking at the current roster, the Stamford-based promotion is at a much better place than it previously was. Each talent on the show has their significance and persona which attracts more fans to the product. This wasn’t the case for Cardona during his WWE tenure. Known as Zack Ryder in the company, Cardona was barely involved in the world title picture.
He had to overcome challenges to reach the top levels of the organization. Even with the encouragement of his fans, he struggled to become well-known and reach his full potential as a star. Years after his release, The Indy God is at a much better place in his career and rallies through several independent wrestling promotions. However, some part of him still craves to be the top dog in a major mainstream promotion.
During a recent interview, Cardona talked about joining AEW or returning to the WWE after having so much success in the indies. With his keen interest in appearing for these promotions, he added a condition to be fulfilled. “Of course, I want to be back in WWE or AEW but only if it’s right. I don’t want to be back just to be back. I don’t want to just be a guy on the roster. Been there, done that.”, said Cardona.
“I certainly don’t wanna end my career in a high school gym or bar. I wanna end it in an arena. Whether that’d be WWE, AEW, or something else that starts up. That is the goal.”
– Matt Cardona
(Chris Van Vliet Interview) pic.twitter.com/GGrQHZ68cs
— Vick (@Vick_8122) December 19, 2023
He stated how he wants to have high-profile matches in a major promotion being their top star. Matt also added that if he gets a phone call from Triple H or Tony Khan, he will not beg for a better role in the promotion and won’t settle for less.
What led to Matt Cardona’s unfortunate release from the WWE in 2020?
Cardona has been one of the most influential wrestlers in the WWE and had great fan support from the audience. He overcame numerous obstacles inside the company to become well-known and won the Raw Tag Team Titles, the United States title, and the WWE Intercontinental title. During his time in the WWE, he developed a devoted fan base thanks to his personality. Chants like “We Want Ryder” broke out in the arena as his merchandise was completely sold out.
After Ryder caused WWE to take notice, he won the US Championship and appeared in a couple of promos with John Cena in 2011. As time passed by, the company never did anything to establish the superstar and he was again promoted to the mid or lower card. Ryder disclosed in an interview that he and WWE were experiencing some contract-related conflict.
There had been a year-long discussion over his contract expiration in August 2019. Surprisingly, he was relieved to learn that Vince McMahon had fired him due to budget cuts in 2020. It released him from tension in addition to allowing him creative freedom. Despite the outcome, Ryder is appreciative of WWE. Both as a wrestler and a person, the 14 years he worked for the corporation helped to mold him.
Matt Cardona has found great success since leaving WWE
While it was hard for the WWE Universe to see a talent like Zack Ryder leave the company, fans were excited to see where he will go next. The former Intercontinental Champion took the opportunity and made the most out of it. He ventured across the globe and wrestled in almost every independent wrestling promotion. Cardona also went on to win several world titles in many independent wrestling promotions earning the nickname ‘Indy God’.
Matt Cardona = The Indy God !!! pic.twitter.com/faKB0Yem7n
— Pro Wrestling & MMA News (@PWMMANews) March 13, 2024
Cardona has fought in several promotions, including GCW, MLW, and WSW, over the past four years. Additionally, he faced Adam Copeland in a one-on-one match for the TNT title in AEW. However, Matt Cardona’s future is still up in the air as he is obviously considering his options before deciding to join AEW or WWE. It will be interesting to see if he joins either firm.