The man formerly known as Zack Ryder is taking a little bit of the past with him as he looks towards the future.
Zack Ryder, after spending over a decade with WWE, was released on Wednesday, April 15, 2020. Now, Matt Cardona is looking to prepare for his future in wrestling by building on elements of what has been successful for him in the past.
On April 21, Matt Cardona trademarked “Internet Champion” and “Alwayz Ready.” The trademarks are intended for merchandise use and pro wrestling exhibitions.
IC 025. US 022 039. G & S: Bandanas; Hats; Hooded sweatshirts; Pants; Shirts; Sweatshirts
IC 041. US 100 101 107. G & S: Entertainment in the nature of wrestling contests; Entertainment services, namely, live appearances by a professional wrestling and sports entertainment personality; Entertainment services, namely, personal appearances by a professional wrestling and sports entertainment personality; Entertainment services, namely, wrestling exhibits and performances by a professional wrestler and entertainer; Providing wrestling news and information via a global computer network; Providing online interviews featuring a professional wrestler and sports entertainer in the field of professional wrestling and sports entertainment for entertainment purposes
#AlwayzReady was a common hashtag used on social media by Zack Ryder as well as #StillHere. Toward the latter portion of his WWE career, Cardona wanted to make a point of saying that he would be ready for any and all opportunities because you never know when fortune can come your way. Cardona already has a shirt that reads “Alwayz Ready” available on his Pro Wrestling Tees merchandise shop.
Zack Ryder used to be known as the Internet Champion during the peak of his YouTube series, Z! True Long Island Story. Started in 2011, the YouTube series propelled Zack Ryder to become WWE United States Champion by the end of the calendar year and many feel that series was the launching point for WWE embracing social media in their marketing and programming. Cardona even had a custom-made internet Championship belt for the Zack Ryder character, although it was never used on television.
Speaking of things never utilized on WWE television, Cardona revealed a pair of unworn trunks on social media. Cardona says they were inspired by his trainer, Mikey Whipwreck, and he is looking forward to wearing them upon returning to the independent wrestling scene.
I originally planned to wear this gear in 2016, but didn’t. It is inspired by my wrestling trainer, @mikeywhipwreck_. I had planned to wear it a few more times, but for one reason or another, I didn’t get to wear it. I can’t wait to wrestle again and finally wear this. pic.twitter.com/T6B6D4Z99k
— Matt Cardona (@TheMattCardona) April 25, 2020
To see a full list of names cut on Wednesday, April 15, 2020, click here.
