John Cena facilitates WWE return as he is recognized for playing a crucial role in a recent, highly anticipated comeback to World Wrestling Entertainment. The situation unfolded prior to Cena’s career finale, during an event that brought both legacy and rising stars into the spotlight and changed the trajectory for one particular competitor.
As John Cena’s farewell match approached, WWE organized a special tournament on their flagship shows, Raw and SmackDown. The purpose was to find the ideal competitor who would have the distinction of facing Cena one last time. This event attracted wide attention, notably because it included a return appearance by Zack Ryder—now performing under his real name, Matt Cardona—who competed against LA Knight in the tournament’s initial round.
Matt Cardona’s Return to the WWE Roster
Matt Cardona, previously known as Zack Ryder in WWE, made his one-night-only return during the aforementioned tournament. Just days later, Cardona officially rejoined the WWE as a member of the SmackDown roster. His return had been anticipated by fans and insiders, who noted how his path from wrestling on independent circuits led him back to the global wrestling stage.
The extent of John Cena’s involvement became clear through remarks from Chelsea Green, Cardona’s wife, who spoke candidly on TMZ’s Inside The Ring. She detailed Cena’s steadfast support for both her and Cardona and emphasized how the relationship developed over years, highlighted by shared personal moments and professional guidance.

Chelsea Green’s Acknowledgment of Cena’s Support
During her interview, Chelsea Green recounted how Cena and his partner Shay consistently supported their career and personal milestones. Cena’s encouragement, particularly after Cardona’s departure from WWE and subsequent stint on the independent wrestling circuit, was described as both genuine and uplifting. Green notably described Cena’s openness and kindness during their interactions off the mat.
Green credited Cena with directly supporting her husband’s return to WWE, suggesting that Cena’s guidance and influence helped reintroduce Cardona to WWE leadership through participation in the high-profile tournament. She stated:
Then for John to help facilitate that as well, obviously Matt did all the hard work, but I really think that John, helping him get into that tournament, was what made WWE see ‘oh wow, that is a superstar that we need’. He’s an Indie star but he is, at his core, a WWE superstar.
— Chelsea Green, WWE Superstar
What This Means for WWE and Its Fans
John Cena’s active role in supporting major returns such as Matt Cardona’s reinforces his influence both inside and outside the ring. By helping to spotlight Cardona’s abilities, Cena not only celebrates the legacy of established talent but also sets a positive example to fellow WWE stars and fans. The return of Cardona adds renewed excitement to the SmackDown roster, bringing depth to upcoming storylines and matches. As the wrestling world follows these developments, Cena’s legacy as both a legendary athlete and a mentor grows even more significant.
