Matt Cardona

Matt Cardona is an American professional wrestler best known for his WWE run under the ring name Zack Ryder and for his later work on the independent circuit.

Matt Cardona is an American professional wrestler best known for his WWE run under the ring name Zack Ryder and for his later work on the independent circuit. He has also wrestled for promotions including AEW, Impact Wrestling and the National Wrestling Alliance, where he became NWA Worlds Heavyweight Champion. His career is noted for using social media to build his profile and for reinventing himself after leaving WWE.

Early life and training

Cardona grew up on Long Island, New York, and pursued professional wrestling from a young age. He began training in the early 2000s and debuted on the independent circuit in 2004.

WWE career as Zack Ryder

Cardona rose to prominence in WWE as Zack Ryder, becoming known for his online personality and fan-driven self-promotion. His most notable singles title wins in WWE included the Intercontinental Championship and United States Championship.

Independent wrestling career

After leaving WWE in 2020, Cardona adopted a more prominent independent-wrestling persona and appeared in multiple promotions. He became associated with the nickname "The Indy God" and won championships across several organizations.

Championships and accomplishments

Cardona has held multiple major titles across different promotions, including world, singles and tag team championships. His résumé includes championship success in WWE and the NWA, among others.