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Using Lessons Learned in WWE, Matt Cardona Paves a New Path to Wrestling Success

SI.com’s Week in Wrestling is published every week and provides beneath-the-surface coverage of the business of pro wrestling.

Matt Cardona: ‘I’m showing you don’t need WWE or AEW to be a successful pro wrestler’

Matt Cardona found a new way to create change in wrestling. Again.

In 2011, Cardona ignited a fury with his Z! True Long Island Story show on YouTube. He generated fanfare during a time when he was not receiving any on WWE programming, showcasing his value and laying the groundwork for a run that turned his beloved Zack Ryder character into a legitimate star.