The former Zack Ryder appeared on tonight’s episode of AEW Dynamite.

He appeared following the TNT title match between Cody and independent star Warhorse. John Silver and Alex Reynolds of the Dark Order attacked Cody after he successfully defended the title. Ryder checked on Cody once everything cleared and the two shook hands. Announcers identified him under his real name, Matt Cardona.

Shortly after his debut, AEW posted a link to merchandise featuring Cardona on their shop website.

Cardona was a part of wide-ranging cuts by WWE that took place back in April after being a part of WWE since 2005. His no-compete expired on July 18. On that day, he posted a teaser video hyping his return to the independent scene.

Prior to his release, he had re-formed his team with Curt Hawkins, who has now appeared in vignettes hyping his debut for Impact wrestling under his real name, Brian Myers.