Matt Cardona has issued a statement thanking WWE fans one week after his surprise return to the company. Cardona appeared on last Friday’s episode of SmackDown, reviving his Zack Ryder persona for the first time in over five years to compete in the “Last Time is Now” tournament. Although he lost his first-round matchup against LA Knight, the appearance generated significant buzz.
Cardona took to social media today to reflect on the moment. He acknowledged the fleeting nature of the wrestling business while expressing gratitude for the reception he received from the WWE fans.
Cardona wrote: “It’s been 1 week since I showed up on SmackDown. I think I have milked the appearance as much as I can…haha. This business moves so fast. It doesn’t care what you did last week. What are you doing now…what are you doing NEXT?! I’m very grateful for the opportunity I was given last week. Thank you @wwe. But most importantly, I have to thank the fans. You all caused the Ryder Revolution in 2011. In 2025, you caused the Ryder Resurrection! It’s unknown what’s next for Zack Ryder…but I am ALWAYZ READY. Woo Woo Woo…You Know It!”
While the match against Knight was a one-off appearance for now, Cardona has signed a temporary merchandise deal that allows WWE to release new Zack Ryder T-shirts. Outside of this appearance, Cardona continues to work on the independent scene for promotions such as GCW and makes appearances for TNA.
The “Last Time is Now” tournament continues tonight on SmackDown with the final first-round matches. “Big” Bronson Reed is set to face Carmelo Hayes, while Finn Balor will take on Penta. The winners will join a bracket that already includes LA Knight, Sheamus, Rusev, Jey Uso, GUNTHER, and Solo Sikoa. The ultimate winner of the tournament will earn the right to be John Cena’s final opponent.
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