Matt Cardona is an American professional wrestler, entrepreneur, and media personality best known for transforming himself from WWE’s Zack Ryder into the self-proclaimed “Indy God”. Through fearless reinvention, business intelligence, and championship success, Cardona has become one of the most influential independent wrestlers of the modern era.
Quick Bio
- Full Name: Matthew Brett Cardona
- Ring Names: Matt Cardona, Zack Ryder
- Date of Birth: May 14, 1985
- Age: 40 years (as of 2026)
- Birthplace: Merrick, Long Island, New York, USA
- Nationality: American
- Ethnicity: White (European-American descent)
- Profession: Professional Wrestler, Entrepreneur, Podcaster
- Height: 6 ft 2 in (188 cm)
- Weight: 214 lbs (97 kg)
- Debut: 2004
Early Life
Raised in Long Island, New York, Matt Cardona grew up idolizing WWF superstars of the 1990s. He trained under ECW legend Mikey Whipwreck and began wrestling on the independent circuit before earning a WWE developmental contract.
WWE Career (Zack Ryder Era)
Cardona debuted in WWE in 2006 and gained mainstream popularity as Zack Ryder. His viral YouTube series Z! True Long Island Story made him one of the first wrestlers to organically build fame online.
Independent Reinvention
After leaving WWE in 2020, Cardona reinvented himself and dominated promotions such as GCW, NWA, Impact Wrestling, AAA, and others, becoming a modern independent wrestling icon.
Major Championships
| Promotion | Championship |
|---|---|
| WWE | Intercontinental, United States, Tag Team Titles |
| GCW | World Champion |
| NWA | World Heavyweight Champion |
| Impact | Digital Media Champion |
Wife & Personal Life
Matt Cardona married WWE star Chelsea Green on January 1, 2022. The pair are known for their stylish appearances and strong influence in the wrestling community.
Business Ventures
Cardona owns multiple merchandise brands, action-figure companies, and hosts the highly successful Major Wrestling Figure Podcast.
Net Worth
- Estimated Net Worth (2026): $3–6 million
- Main Income: Wrestling, podcasting, merchandise, appearances
Social Media
- Instagram: @TheMattCardona
- Twitter/X: @TheMattCardona
- YouTube: Major Wrestling Figure Podcast
Trivia
- Nicknamed “The Indy God”
- Pioneer of wrestler-led YouTube fame
- Huge collector of vintage wrestling toys
- Known for luxury fashion & supercars
FAQs
Who is Matt Cardona?
Matt Cardona is an American professional wrestler and former WWE star known as Zack Ryder.
Is Matt Cardona married?
Yes, to Chelsea Green.
Why is he called The Indy God?
Because of his dominance across independent wrestling promotions.
What is Matt Cardona’s net worth?
Estimated between $3–6 million.
What was his WWE name?
Zack Ryder.