The pursuit of a world championship in professional wrestling is a long and arduous one, filled with setbacks and triumphs. For Matt Cardona, that dream remains firmly in focus, and he’s found a notable advocate in Cody Rhodes. Rhodes publicly voiced his support for Cardona’s ambition, urging him to continue striving for the top prize in WWE, a sentiment shared during a recent episode of Rhodes’ “What Do You Wanna Talk About?” podcast.
Rhodes didn’t simply offer encouragement; he actively challenged Cardona to realize his goal. “There’s something you brought up and I didn’t want to be mushy, if that’s the word, I didn’t want to be emotional but you brought up something,” Rhodes said on the podcast. “You said you came back to be WWE Champion and like I think it’s okay we got the cameras here to tell you, I hope that happens but as well as your friend I’d like to hold you to it cause you were very much of a ‘hold me to it’… So, I’d hope to hold you to it and I hope that happens – a World Championship, WWE Championship or World Championship or within WWE, I think the flagship of these shows.” This isn’t just a casual endorsement; it’s a call to accountability from a fellow wrestler who understands the dedication required to reach the pinnacle of the sport.
A History of Ambition and a Return to WWE
Cardona’s journey back to WWE is a testament to his perseverance. He returned to the company in 2023, five years after his initial release. His initial run saw him compete on the NXT brand, even participating in an invasion storyline with TNA Wrestling. He later appeared in John Cena’s “Last Time Is Now” Tournament on SmackDown in November of the same year, showcasing his continued presence within the WWE landscape.
However, Cardona’s recent appearances haven’t been without conflict. Last week on SmackDown, he attempted to intervene on behalf of Rhodes following a heated exchange with Randy Orton. His attempt to reason with Orton ended poorly, resulting in a physical attack by “The Viper.” This incident underscores the challenges Cardona faces as he navigates the competitive world of WWE and attempts to establish himself as a legitimate contender.
Building a Dream Team: Cardona’s Ideal Allies
Beyond his individual aspirations, Cardona also took the opportunity to outline his vision for a dream team during the podcast interview. He named Chelsea Green as his first pick, citing her as a key component. He then included Rhodes himself, acknowledging his ability to “politick” and advocate for opportunities. Cardona also highlighted Brian Myers, a long-time friend and collaborator from their days in the New York Wrestling Connection (NYWC), and Nic Nemeth, currently wrestling under the name “The Wanted” in TNA. Surprisingly, he also expressed admiration for The Miz, stating, “The Miz can do it all. He’s always there when I need to pick his brain about something.”
Looking back further, Cardona reminisced about a potential core group from 2011-2012, including himself, The Miz, John Morrison, Dolph Ziggler, and Kit Wilson. This glimpse into his past collaborations reveals his appreciation for a diverse range of talents and his ability to envision successful partnerships.
The Significance of Rhodes’ Support
Rhodes’ public backing of Cardona carries significant weight. Rhodes himself has turn into a prominent figure in WWE, having recently challenged Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at WrestleMania. His own journey to the top, marked by leaving WWE to build his profile elsewhere before returning to claim his championship opportunity, resonates with Cardona’s current situation. Rhodes understands the value of self-belief and the importance of having allies in a demanding industry.
The relationship between Rhodes and Cardona extends beyond the wrestling ring. Rhodes acknowledged their shared history of mutual support, recalling how Cardona consistently celebrated his accomplishments, even those considered major milestones like defeating Brock Lesnar. This reciprocal respect adds a layer of authenticity to Rhodes’ endorsement, suggesting a genuine desire to spot Cardona succeed.
Listen to the full conversation on the “What Do You Wanna Talk About?” podcast on Spotify.
As Cardona continues to compete in WWE, his path toward a championship opportunity remains uncertain. However, with the support of a fellow wrestler like Cody Rhodes, and a clear vision for his future, he’s positioned to continue pursuing his long-held ambition. The coming weeks and months will be crucial in determining whether Cardona can capitalize on this momentum and ultimately achieve his goal of becoming a WWE or World Champion.
Fans can stay updated on Cardona’s progress through WWE’s official website and social media channels. Further developments in his storyline are expected on future episodes of SmackDown.
Keep reading
