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By Andrew Ravens
Contributing Sports Writer
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Matt Cardona competed in his first WWE match in over five years on the October 14 episode of NXT. The former Zack Ryder went one-on-one with Josh Briggs.
The highly anticipated return match did not go Cardona's way. Josh Briggs managed to secure a pinfall victory over the TNA star.
The match was the culmination of a brief but personal rivalry between the two. It began when Cardona, as part of the ongoing TNA crossover storyline, interfered in a qualifying match and cost Briggs a spot on Team NXT for the recent Showdown special event.
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An irate Briggs demanded a match against Cardona, which was made official for last night's show. The bout marked Cardona's first time wrestling under the WWE banner since facing Bobby Lashley on Raw in March 2020, shortly before his release.
More news: WWE Superstar Announces Retirement Match
Since that release, Cardona has completely reinvented his career. He became one of the most talked-about names on the independent circuit, adopting the persona of the "Indy God" and winning major championships in promotions like GCW and the NWA.
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His return to a WWE ring, even as a visiting TNA star, was a significant moment. The match itself was another chapter in the ongoing war between the two promotions.
With his victory over the high-profile TNA star, Josh Briggs has gained significant momentum on the road to the Halloween Havoc special. For Matt Cardona, it is unclear if this was a one-off appearance or if his rivalry with Briggs will continue as TNA stars now hold multiple NXT championships.
More WWE News:
- Released WWE Superstar Retires From Pro Wrestling
- Released WWE Star Breaks Silence On Departure
- Released WWE Star Wants To Join AEW
For more on WWE, head to Newsweek Sports.
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