Matt Cardona, known for his long tenure in WWE as Zack Ryder, is being teased for a potential return at the 2026 WWE Royal Rumble. His possible comeback has sparked interest after recent appearances on WWE NXT, signaling that the Matt Cardona Royal Rumble could be a reality in the near future.
The History and Career of Matt Cardona in WWE
Matt Cardona spent 14 years with WWE, primarily wrestling under the Zack Ryder name. Throughout his career, he had several championship reigns, including a United States Championship, a brief Intercontinental Championship held for just one day, and two Tag Team Championships. Despite these highlights, there were many periods during his WWE time when he was not prominently featured on the main roster. Ultimately, Cardona was released from WWE in April 2020.
Cardona’s Wrestling Journey After WWE
Since his release more than five years ago, Cardona has risen to significant popularity across the independent wrestling scene. He has also made appearances in other promotions such as the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) and Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA), although he currently does not have a contract with either. In late September, Cardona appeared on WWE’s NXT show representing TNA, where he notably interfered in a match involving Josh Briggs and Myles Borne. His recent WWE appearances have generated excitement, suggesting a possible path back to the company.
The Support From Chelsea Green for Cardona’s WWE Comeback
Cardona’s wife, Chelsea Green, herself a former WWE Women’s US Champion, has publicly expressed her desire to see him return to WWE. Green highlighted the challenges they face with busy schedules keeping them apart, noting that the pandemic period was a rare time when they spent extended time together.
“Yeah, I mean, it’s tough. We do not see each other often at all. We are ships passing in the night. We’ve really been that way our whole relationship, almost, except for during the pandemic. That was the only time we really were together.” Chelsea Green, WWE Women’s US Champion
During an interview, Green mentioned her hope that Cardona’s return to WWE could come spectacularly with the Royal Rumble in 2026. She emphasized his desire to wrestle at WrestleMania events again and to tour alongside her and their friends, many of whom remain active in WWE.
“Now, as we’re entering our ninth year of being together, I would love him at WWE, and I know that that’s his goal. I know he wants to go back and be doing WrestleManias and be traveling with me, and you know, like with all his friends. His best friends are still here, too. So I’m hoping that he gets back. My fingers are also crossed for that. 2026, the year of Matt Cardona, maybe in The Rumble.” Chelsea Green, WWE Women’s US Champion
Fan Reactions and Cardona’s Wishes for His WWE Return
Cardona’s recent NXT appearances received loud cheers from the WWE fanbase, clearly indicating his continued popularity and the demand for a comeback. He has made his intentions clear that any return to WWE would be under his real name, Matt Cardona, rather than the Zack Ryder persona he used previously. This signals a fresh start and a new chapter in his wrestling career if the Royal Rumble 2026 return materializes.
Additional Wrestling News Highlights
Alongside the buzz surrounding Cardona, other major developments have unfolded in the wrestling world. Brock Lesnar recently dominated John Cena at WWE Wrestlepalooza, further illustrating the evolving dynamics within WWE.
TNA is reportedly engaged in active negotiations for a new television deal, marking an important step in the company’s future growth prospects. Meanwhile, Roman Reigns made his return to WWE RAW following the Clash in Paris event, though reports suggest ongoing tensions between Reigns and a two-time WWE Champion.
WWE SmackDown continues to build momentum, with big names like Tiffany Stratton, Sami Zayn, and Damian Priest featured on upcoming shows. In a surprising move, a prominent WWE star declined a lucrative contract extension before exiting the company.
The WWE Bloodline faction reunited recently on RAW, with Jey Uso posting a cryptic one-word message hinting at further storyline developments. AEW Dynamite celebrated its sixth anniversary with high-profile matches, including a notable six-man tag and a bout featuring Kyle Fletcher against Orange Cassidy.
Additionally, former WWE Tag Team Champions are set to make their in-ring return with the company after a five-year absence, reigniting excitement for tag team wrestling fans.
What the Future Holds for Matt Cardona and WWE
The possibility of Matt Cardona’s return at the Royal Rumble in 2026 carries significant weight for WWE’s narrative landscape. His comeback could reconnect him with longtime friends and provide fresh opportunities to participate in marquee events like WrestleMania. Chelsea Green’s public backing and recent fan enthusiasm on NXT broadcasts underscore the anticipation surrounding Cardona’s next steps.
This development reflects a broader interest in restoring former stars who have evolved and gained momentum elsewhere. If Cardona’s return happens as hoped, it may bring renewed energy and storyline depth to WWE’s roster during a critical period of growth and competition within professional wrestling.
