John Cena has openly expressed his admiration for Matt Cardona’s return to WWE, reigniting fan interest after Cardona’s years away from the company. The subject of John Cena on Matt Cardona is front and center as Cardona made a full-time return during a high-profile event at the end of 2025, astonishing the wrestling community.
Previously known as Zack Ryder during his initial WWE tenure, Matt Cardona surprised audiences when he entered WWE’s “The Last Time Is Now” tournament—a competition held to determine the final competitor to face Cena in his anticipated retirement match. Although Cardona had agreed to a merchandise arrangement with WWE which led some to believe his return was only temporary, events quickly shifted in the New Year.
Surprises Continue Into WWE’s 2026 Season
During the first episode of WWE SmackDown in 2026, Cardona made an unadvertised yet impactful appearance. He secured a decisive victory over Kit Wilson at the KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York, signaling to fans and peers that his WWE journey was not merely a one-off stunt.
The news became official when Michael Cole, on commentary during the January 2nd blue brand broadcast, confirmed that Cardona—referred to as Mr. Alwayz Ready—had committed to a full-time role within WWE. This development quashed rumors of his brief involvement and repositioned Cardona as a central figure in upcoming WWE storylines.
Matt Cardona’s Statement and Cena’s Public Support
Following his victorious return on Friday night, Matt Cardona issued a comprehensive statement, providing clarity and context for his decision to come back to WWE. His commentary offered fans insight into the behind-the-scenes dynamics that led to his participation in high-stakes matches, as well as his motivations for taking the next step in his wrestling career.
The following day, John Cena responded on social media, showing strong support for Cardona’s efforts and resilience throughout his career trajectory. Cena took to X (formerly Twitter) to uplift both Cardona and fellow wrestler Chelsea Green.
“Persistence and preparation tend to help manufacture luck,”
wrote John Cena.
“I couldn’t be more proud of both Matt Cardona and Chelsea Green.”
— John Cena, WWE Superstar
“They stand as a tremendous example of making luck through effort. Welcome home Matt.”
— John Cena, WWE Superstar
What This Means for WWE and the Future
Cardona’s reentry into WWE full-time stands as a testament to his growth as a performer, both inside and outside the organization. With John Cena’s positive comments ringing loudly across social media, fans can expect heightened anticipation for Cardona’s future bouts and ongoing storylines within WWE’s evolving landscape.
The enthusiasm from stars like Cena, coupled with Cardona’s recent performances, brings renewed energy to WWE’s roster at a pivotal time, hinting at fresh rivalries and memorable matches as the company heads further into 2026.
The WWE universe, from Buffalo’s KeyBank Center to online fans around the world, is poised to witness the next phase in Matt Cardona’s career, now officially backed by some of sports entertainment’s most influential names.
Persistence and preparation tend to help manufacture luck. I couldn’t be more proud of both @TheMattCardona and @ImChelseaGreen They stand as a tremendous example of making luck through effort. Welcome home Matt.☕️🍸 https://t.co/UYwRdgyIKz
— John Cena (@JohnCena) January 3, 2026
