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Zack Ryder Makes Surprise SmackDown Return, Loses to LA Knight in Cena Tournament

WWE positioned the nostalgic return as a one-night cameo within the tournament to choose John Cena’s final opponent.

Overview

  • Matt Cardona appeared under his Zack Ryder persona, complete with the “Radio” theme and Broski branding, for his first main-roster match in over five years.
  • LA Knight advanced after catching a middle-rope Rough Ryder attempt, hitting a powerbomb and finishing with the BFT for the pin.
  • The bout was part of WWE’s “Last Time Is Now” tournament, which will determine the opponent for John Cena’s advertised final match.
  • Knight moves into the second round alongside Jey Uso, Rusev, and Sheamus, with WWE yet to release a full tournament bracket.
  • Coverage characterized Ryder’s appearance as a nostalgia-focused cameo, with no confirmed plans for extended main-roster involvement.