Matt Cardona (f.k.a. Zack Ryder) admits he’s baffled by WWE’s continued hesitation to re-sign him, despite his proven track record since leaving the company in 2020. During an appearance on Insight with Chris Van Vliet, the former Intercontinental Champion revealed he’s made multiple unsuccessful overtures to return.
“I feel like I’ve proved myself right,” Cardona stated, referencing his post-WWE transformation into one of indie wrestling’s most sought-after talents. The self-described “Deathmatch King” acknowledged fan and peer expectations for his WWE comeback, including wife Chelsea Green’s public comments about an inevitable return.
Cardona described polite but fruitless communications with WWE officials, noting “there’s been no offer” despite his accomplishments. His surprise stems from consistent audience demand and his own career reinvention, which included championship wins across multiple promotions.
Related content
The Long Island native emphasized he’ll continue grinding on the independent circuit while remaining open to WWE opportunities. His comments highlight the unpredictable nature of wrestling contracts, even for established names with mainstream recognition.
Cardona’s situation mirrors other WWE alumni who found greater creative freedom after release, yet still covet a return to wrestling’s biggest platform. With his wife firmly entrenched in WWE’s women’s division, industry observers speculate a reunion might eventually materialize.
READ MORE: Major Title Match Pulled from TNA Under Siege Due to Injury
