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“Dead” WWE Character Returns After 7 Years On SmackDown

By Ahmed Hamdy • Published Nov 14, 2025 21:38 EST
WWE logo Matt Cardona

A shocking return took place tonight on WWE SmackDown. However, the comeback ended in tragedy.

Matt Cardona joined the Stamford-based company in 2005. After spending two years in developmental, he debuted on the main roster as Zack Ryder.

Over the next 11 years, the 40-year-old competed on RAW and SmackDown. However, he was released from his contract five years ago as part of budget cuts during the pandemic.

Following his exit, the former Intercontinental Champion dropped the Zack Ryder gimmick to compete under his real name, Matt Cardona. In an interview with Sports Illustrated last year, he claimed the character of Zack Ryder was dead.

Zack Ryder Returns On WWE SmackDown

Last week on SmackDown, it was announced that LA Knight will face a surprise opponent in the first round of the “Last Time Is Now” tournament to determine John Cena’s final opponent.

After The Megastar made his way to the ring tonight on the blue brand, fans were shocked as Matt Cardona made his comeback after five years with his Zack Ryder character.

Despite the former Intercontinetal Champion being close to victory on multiple occasions during the match, it was Knight who went over. The match marked the first time Ryder wrestled on the blue brand in seven years.

Also read:Ex-World Champion Advances In John Cena’s Tournament On WWE SmackDown

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