Matt Cardonaβs long road back to WWE ended last night on SmackDown, as the superstar shocked the world with a massive appearance on the blue brand. Answering an open challenge, Cardona walked out to a massive pop and squared off with Kit Wilson on the show. The star used his iconic Rough Ryder to take down Wilson, with fans enjoying his presence in the company.
Moments later, the commentary team confirmed this was more than a one-night appearance. The SmackDown General Manager, Nick Aldis, announced that Cardona has officially signed with the blue brand, leaving his fans around the world elated.
With Cardona now signed with the Stamford-based company, his work on the independent circuit might have to end. The star recently announced that he was relinquishing his ACW World Championship because he had signed a new contract with the Triple H-led company, making headlines around the globe.
“Complete Matt Cardona. So you guys saw last night, I made my return to SmackDown. I am back in WWE. That means I can no longer compete tonight. That means I can no longer be the ACW Champion. I am very proud to have been the ACW Champion. I love ACW, one of the greatest independent promotions out there. With such a great roster, I know that somebody is gonna step up to give you great fans a new ACW Champion. See you guys down the road,” he stated.
Matt Cardona just announced he is no longer able to compete at ACW tonight and has relinquished the ACW World Championship.
A new champion will be crowned tonight. pic.twitter.com/tC8Fa3ZZyn
β ππ«ππππ§ (@WrestlingCovers) January 3, 2026
What’s next for Matt Cardona on WWE SmackDown?
Cardona’s return to SmackDown has made it clear that the star will be a part of the blue brand and will begin feuding with some top names very soon.
While things haven’t been confirmed yet, the star could begin a feud with Aleister Black, now that the latter has finished his feud with Damian Priest, to get to the top of the industry.
Only time will tell what WWE has planned for the star next.
