WWE Royal Rumble 2026: Predicting All 30 Entrants

22. Matt Cardona (#9)

WWE Royal Rumble 2026 Roman Reigns Chris Jericho Santino Marella
WWE

Zack Ryder won't be singing to the radio, because Zack Ryder is no more. WWE brought the guy who played him back, but they've furnished Matt Cardona's dreams by letting him use that name instead. Fair enough. A berth in the Rumble awaits. It won't be anything special (Cardona is there to make up the numbers more than anything), but he'll still have a good time out in Saudi.

The ex-'Long Island Iced-Z' has taken up the same kind of spot talent like Carlito or John Morrison did in recent years. In other words, he's a recognisable name from the previous generation that will tickle WWE fans. Cardona is fit, healthy and raring to go. He's been waiting on this moment for a long time as well.

It's here now. Rough Ryders for everyone it is then.

Contributor

Lifelong wrestling, video game, music and sports obsessive who has been writing about his passions since childhood. Jamie started writing for WhatCulture in 2013, and has contributed thousands of articles and YouTube videos since then. He cut his teeth penning published pieces for top UK and European wrestling read Fighting Spirit Magazine (FSM), and also has extensive experience working within the wrestling biz as a manager and commentator for promotions like ICW on WWE Network and WCPW/Defiant since 2010. Further, Jamie also hosted the old Ministry Of Slam podcast, and has interviewed everyone from Steve Austin and Shawn Michaels to Bret Hart and Trish Stratus.