“Deathmatch King” Matt Cardona, formerly known as Zack Ryder, has made an impressive entrance in the independent wrestling scene when he released WWE in 2020. During Cardona’s time in WWE, he was successful in several matches and even participated in the WrestleMania main event as part of the 24 The Edgeheads. However, it was his groundbreaking YouTube web show “Z! True Long Island Story,” which debuted in February 2011, that really captivated his fans and set the precedent for wrestling and Internet chat shows “and Freddie.” Wrestling,” in a candid conversation, Cardona and former WWE writer Freddy Prinze Jr. shared the inspiration for the series and how it bridges the gap between the audience
Cardona talked about his early years in WWE and how he had a lifelong dream of becoming a WWE Superstar but felt empty in his career. “I’ve been in WWE for a few years and of course it was my dream to stay, but it wasn’t my dream just to be a guy on the roster,” Cardona explained. “It’s cool, awesome. I can say I’m a WWE superstar, but I didn’t feel like a superstar.” This feeling of inadequacy fueled her desire to stand out, leading her to create her websites as a way to create buzz and recognition, or possibly even face removal if it didn’t work out has been revealed
Driven by ambition and a relentless pursuit of his goals, Cardona took matters into his own hands. “I’m always trying to achieve more goals, not that I’m not satisfied with what I’ve accomplished, of course I am, but I’m a big dreamer just like you guys and I feel like we only live once and YOLO right? But you have to go for it. If not now, when?” Cardona reflected. His web series, characterized by its unique and personal touch, quickly resonated with fans, offering a behind-the-scenes look at his life and career that traditional WWE programming didn’t provide.
However, the success of “Z! True Long Island Story” eventually caught the attention of WWE management. What started as a passion project soon transformed into a corporate assignment, stripping away the fun and creative freedom that initially defined it. Cardona has previously expressed that the show became less enjoyable once WWE imposed its requirements, turning it from a labor of love into just another work obligation.
Despite these challenges, the impact of Cardona’s web series on the wrestling industry cannot be overstated. It paved the way for other wrestlers to engage with fans through social media and internet shows, offering a new platform for storytelling and character development outside the confines of traditional television. This innovative approach has become a staple in the modern wrestling landscape, with numerous stars following in Cardona’s footsteps to build their brands and connect with audiences on a deeper level.
Cardona’s journey exemplifies the power of initiative and the importance of seizing opportunities. His ability to leverage the internet to cultivate a dedicated fan base and elevate his career serves as an inspiration to aspiring wrestlers and content creators alike. In an industry where standing out can often be as crucial as technical skill, Cardona’s story underscores the value of creativity, persistence, and self-promotion.
As he continues to thrive on the independent circuit, Cardona’s legacy as a trailblazer in wrestling media remains intact. His experience with “Z! True Long Island Story” not only defined his career but also left an indelible mark on the industry, highlighting the transformative potential of embracing new media and innovative storytelling techniques.
