Matt Cardona Joins WWE SmackDown Lineup

Matt Cardona has officially joined the WWE SmackDown roster, marking an exciting return for the wrestling star. His comeback took place during the inaugural SmackDown of 2026, where he faced off against Kit Wilson as a surprise opponent.
Details of Cardona’s Return
WWE’s General Manager, Nick Aldis, confirmed Cardona’s signing. This event comes after Cardona’s cameo during last year’s TNA Invasion storyline. Fans were thrilled to see him take the ring once again.
Match Highlights
During his return, the titantron initially displayed Cardona under his former ring name, Zack Ryder. However, WWE quickly transitioned to his new persona as Matt Cardona, which will be used in future broadcasts.
Fan Reactions
- Fans expressed excitement on social media, highlighting Cardona’s evolution as a performer.
- The official WWE account tweeted about his return, saying, “MATT CARDONA IS HERE 🤩 Zack Ryder is so last year 😜.”
With this signing, WWE SmackDown continues to bolster its roster, ensuring a dynamic and engaging viewing experience for wrestling fans. Cardona’s journey in WWE is a testament to his resilience and dedication to the sport.
What’s Next for Matt Cardona?
As he embarks on this new chapter, wrestling enthusiasts eagerly await to see how Cardona will impact the SmackDown brand. His previous experiences and popularity position him as a significant player in upcoming storylines.




