Matt Cardona has not signed a long-term contract with AEW, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t want to be a champion in the promotion.
The former Zack Ryder received his release from WWE on Wednesday, April 15th, 2020. After 15 years in the WWE system, Matt Cardona was ready to break free and take a chance on himself in All Elite Wrestling.
Speaking to Sports Illustrated, Cardona reveals that, while it is true that he hasn’t signed a long-term deal with the new promotion, he has no problem doing the work to leave his mark and obtain Championship success in AEW.
“I haven’t signed a long-term deal, but that is the plan,” said Cardona. “I didn’t just come here to get a new shirt on Shop AEW—and it’s a great shirt, the number one shirt this week—I’m here to be tag champion, TNT Champion, and AEW Champion. And yes, I want that Jazwares action figure. I’m here for the long haul.”
He continued, “I’ve been talking a big game, now I need to prove it. I’ve been working out harder than ever, and I hope people watching feel like they’re on this ride with me. I have no problem working hard, and I want to be able to see the results. That’s why AEW is the perfect environment for me to thrive. If you work your ass off, you’ll see the results.”
Last night, he picked up his first victory in AEW, teaming with Cody Rhodes to defeat John Silver and Alex Reynolds in tag team competition.
