Almost four years to the day, WWE released Matt Cardona, who wrestled for them under the name Zack Ryder. However, while many wrestlers’ careers decline post-WWE, Cardona would instead establish himself as one of the top talents on the independent circuit. Additionally, he would feature for promotions like AEW, TNA, and MLW, ensuring he maintained a television presence.
Yet, he is now set for a spell on the sidelines, as Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select has unfortunately reported that he has suffered a torn pec and requires surgery. How long he will be out of the ring is currently unknown, although if it is less than six months, it would be considered a positive outcome.
38-year-old Cardona broke into the business in 2004 and signed a developmental contract with WWE in 2006. Subsequently, he received his big break by aligning with Edge and Curt Hawkins as the Edge Heads, and he would memorably interfere in Edge’s match at WrestleMania XXIV against The Undertaker. From there, he would become a star in his own right with a Long Island loudmouth gimmick, winning both the Intercontinental Championship and the United States Championship despite never receiving a constant push.