Matt Cardona Thanks Fans For Their Support After Competing On WWE SmackDown

Matt Cardona (FKA Zack Ryder) returned to WWE TV after more than five years on last night’s SmackDown. The Indy King was revealed as the mystery opponent of LA Knight in the first round of The Last Time Is Now Tournament.

Though Cardona failed to beat The Megastar, he put on a valiant performance, much to the delight of the fans in attendance. Earlier today, Cardona took to his X account to acknowledge the praise he has been receiving since last night and thanked fans for their continued support.

He wrote:

“I’m the Internet Champ… But I can’t even read the amount of posts about last night. Thank you all so much. Without you, none of this happens.”

I’m the Internet Champ…but I can’t even read the amount of posts about last night. Thank you all so much. Without you, none of this happens.

— Matt Cardona (@TheMattCardona) November 15, 2025

Following his return to WWE television last night on SmackDown, an update has emerged regarding Matt Cardona’s current status with the global wrestling juggernaut. Fightful Select is reporting that Cardona has yet to sign a deal with WWE and that his appearance last night, as of now, was a one-off affair. It will be interesting to see if the former WWE United States Champion appears on weekly programming in the coming months.

Meanwhile, following his match against LA Knight, Matt Cardona cut a heartfelt promo backstage. You can check out his comments HERE.