Return to WWE forces championship decision on the independent scene
Summary
– Matt Cardona relinquished the ACW World Championship after signing with WWE
– The title was vacated without a final defense due to contract restrictions
– Cardona officially closes his independent run following his SmackDown return
Matt Cardona’s return to WWE has already created ripple effects beyond SmackDown.
Following his appearance on the January 2 episode of WWE SmackDown, Cardona confirmed that he would no longer be able to compete on the independent scene. As a result, he announced that he was vacating the ACW World Championship ahead of a scheduled appearance.
ACW quickly confirmed the news and revealed that a new world champion would be crowned the same night. The decision ended Cardona’s reign without a final title defense, as WWE contracts prevent him from wrestling for outside promotions.
Cardona’s move officially closes the chapter on his independent run, where he rebuilt his career after being released by WWE more than five years ago. During that time, he competed across multiple promotions, won championships, and reestablished himself under his real name.
Upon returning to WWE, Cardona also put the Zack Ryder persona behind him, choosing to compete moving forward as Matt Cardona. The decision reflects the long-term effort he put into reshaping his identity outside the company.
While his previous WWE stint ended abruptly, Cardona’s journey through the independent circuit reshaped his standing in the industry. Now back under a WWE contract, his focus shifts entirely to the next phase of his career.
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
— 𝐃𝐫𝐚𝐕𝐞𝐧 (@WrestlingCovers) January 3, 2026
