Matt Cardona believes today’s wrestlers have more ways than ever to connect with fans and build their own following. The former Zack Ryder says it’s up to each performer to find a path when the audience isn’t responding.
Cardona made the point in a social media post alongside a clip from his recent conversation with comedian Chris Distefano. During the interview, Cardona reflected on using YouTube and social media to grow his popularity instead of waiting for WWE to give him more television time.
“If you’re a pro wrestler and you’re not over. It’s your fault. Find a way. Create your own path.”
Cardona started Z! True Long Island Story in 2011 while working for WWE as Zack Ryder. The YouTube series gave him a way to speak directly to fans and build a following beyond what he was getting on television, helping make him one of wrestling’s early social media success stories.
That strategy helped turn Ryder’s online popularity into a visible part of his WWE character. Ringside News previously covered how Cardona’s early YouTube work helped change the way wrestlers promote themselves and connect with fans. His social media approach also became part of his wrestling legacy.
Cardona has continued building his own name and audience since leaving WWE, while recently returning to the company under the Matt Cardona name. Ringside News covered his surprise return to SmackDown earlier this year.
Cardona’s message puts the responsibility on wrestlers to take initiative and find ways to reach fans. What do you think wrestlers can do to get themselves over today? Share your thoughts in the comments.
