Zack Ryder returns to WWE Smackdown with new name on New Year episode, secures victory after more than six years, defeats Kit Wilson; watch here

WWE has always managed to find new ways to surprise fans with storylines, twists, and turns. As the first episode of Smackdown kicked off with the New Year theme, it brought a new twist. Matt Cardona, formerly known as Zack Ryder, returned to the Stamford-based promotion to take on Kit Wilson in a singles match. The return was one to remember for Cardona, as he bagged his first victory after six and a half years.

According to reports, Michael Cole announced that Cardona is now officially a member of the SmackDown roster. He has been signed by General Manager Nick Aldis. Cardona had previously returned to WWE during the TNA Invasion storyline in 2025.

As Cardona returned on SmackDown, the titantron at first showed him as Zack Ryder, but then the screen switched to Matt Cardona. Reports claim that WWE will use this name going forward; however, there is no confirmation yet from WWE about what will happen in the future.





His last appearance was as Zack Ryder in "The Last Time is Now" tournament. Prior to his recent string of appearances, including his "NXT" match against Josh Briggs, Cardona was last seen in a WWE ring in 2020, according to Wrestling INC. While being away from WWE, Cardona appeared in several promotions such as AEW, Impact/TNA, GCW, and ROH.

Matt Cardona vs Kit Wilson: Match highlights

As the bell rang, Wilson made the move in a bid to dominate proceedings in the early going. A corkscrew elbow gave Wilson early match dominance, but Cardona caught him with a clothesline.

Cardona briefly took control but his party was soon spoiled by a wily Wilson, who knocked him off the ropes and to the ground. The fight continued with momentum shifting before Cardona nearly secured a near fall with a double underhook powerbomb.

Wilson tried to make a response with his signature move, the Tourniquet, but the British star failed to secure the three-count. Things ultimately unravelled when Wilson looked for a blow in the corner, only to miss. Cardona seized the opportunity and landed the Rough Ryder to secure the winning pinfall.

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