

Matt Cardona vs. Chris Jericho: Why ROH: Final Battle Could Cement Cardona as a Top Guy
Professional wrestling thrives on moments where the past meets the future. Ring of Honor’s Final Battle presents such an opportunity as Matt Cardona faces Chris Jericho in a match that carries significant implications for both competitors. For Jericho, it’s another chapter in an already legendary career. For Cardona, it’s potentially the moment that solidifies him as a top-tier star in the eyes of wrestling fans and promotions worldwide.
The Stakes for Matt Cardona.
Matt Cardona, formerly known as Zack Ryder in WWE, has spent the last few years carving out an identity far removed from the “Underdog from the Underground” persona he was boxed into during his WWE tenure. Reinventing himself as “The Indy God,” Cardona has become a fixture on the independent wrestling scene, collecting championships in GCW, NWA, and countless promotions across the globe. However, critics argue that his accolades, while impressive, have not translated into mainstream recognition as a top-level talent.
This match against Chris Jericho represents a crossroads.
Jericho is not just a veteran; he’s a kingmaker. From helping elevate talents like Jon Moxley in AEW to delivering classics against young stars like Will Ospreay, Jericho has a reputation for legitimizing those he steps into the ring with.
For Cardona, a victory—or even a standout performance—against “The Ocho” could silence doubters and cement his status as more than just an independent darling.
Why Matt Cardona Needs This Match
1. A Proven Draw: While Cardona’s name carries weight on the indie scene, he hasn’t consistently headlined for major promotions like AEW or WWE in recent years. A match against Jericho at Final Battle gives Cardona a platform to showcase his ability to captivate a mainstream audience.
2. Breaking the Ceiling: Despite his reinvention, Cardona’s career still bears the stigma of his midcard WWE past. Wrestling a world-renowned legend like Jericho is an opportunity to prove he belongs in the conversation with modern-day main eventers.
3. ROH’s Legacy: Ring of Honor has always been a proving ground for wrestlers on the cusp of superstardom. With ROH seeking to reestablish itself under the AEW umbrella, a stellar showing by Cardona could position him as a cornerstone of the promotion.
The Jericho Factor.
Chris Jericho thrives on reinvention, but he’s also a master at making his opponents look like stars. Whether he wins or loses, Jericho understands the importance of storytelling in wrestling. If Jericho sees potential in Cardona, expect him to create moments that elevate the younger star’s profile.
This match isn’t just about wins and losses; it’s about perception. If Cardona can hang with Jericho—outmaneuvering him in the ring or outsmarting him on the microphone—it will send a message to fans and promoters alike that Cardona is a force to be reckoned with.
A Pivotal Moment for ROH Final Battle has historically been a launching pad for careers. From Bryan Danielson to Samoa Joe, ROH has been the proving ground for future legends. Cardona has the charisma, in-ring skill, and marketing savvy to thrive in the modern wrestling landscape.
A memorable performance at Final Battle could place him alongside the greats who have used ROH as a springboard to wrestling superstardom.
The Road.
Regardless of the outcome, this match will define the next chapter of Matt Cardona’s career. A victory over Jericho would undoubtedly catapult him into the upper echelon of wrestling. Even in defeat, a compelling performance could serve as the launching pad he needs to move beyond his indie success and cement his place among wrestling’s elite.At Final Battle, Matt Cardona isn’t just wrestling Chris Jericho—he’s fighting for his legacy.
And in the world of professional wrestling, moments like these are what create legends.
