The TNA invasion of WWE NXT has created a buzz in the wrestling world, and one of the most talked-about aspects of the angle is the return of Matt Cardona, formerly known as Zack Ryder, to WWE television for the first time in over five years. Cardona was part of the TNA stars that stormed the ring at the end of this week’s NXT, leading to a massive brawl between the two promotions. His appearance immediately led to questions about his contractual status.
According to a report from Fightful Select, Matt Cardona has been working for TNA without an official contract since his return to the company. This free-agent status is a significant detail, as it technically means he is not exclusively tied to TNA and could, in theory, sign with WWE at any time. This was not always the case, as TNA had previously moved away from using talent without contracts, a policy that had led to Cardona’s departure from the promotion a couple of years ago.
However, that policy has since changed, allowing for his return and his current, unique position in the middle of this invasion angle. As a former multi-time champion in WWE, his return was a genuine surprise. The fact that he is not contractually bound to TNA opens up the possibility of a swerve, where he could ultimately reveal his loyalty lies with WWE, betraying TNA stars.
Matt Cardona was a WWE superstar for over 15 years, where he became a Grand Slam champion, holding the Intercontinental, United States, and Tag Team Championships. After his release in 2020, he reinvented himself on the independent circuit as “The Deathmatch King” and had successful runs in numerous promotions, including a brief but impactful reign as the NWA Worlds Heavyweight Champion.
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