WWE Sees Midcard Futures for Matt Cardona and Ethan Page Despite Strong Performances

In what could be a frustrating revelation for fans of both stars, WWE reportedly doesn’t view Matt Cardona or Ethan Page as long-term main eventers—despite strong fan support and consistent performances.

Dave Meltzer discussed WWE’s internal perception of the two during a recent episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, explaining that while both men have value, the company doesn’t seem to have big plans for them beyond the midcard. Cardona, who rebuilt his career after leaving WWE as Zack Ryder, may still be seen as just another name on the roster.

“Yeah. Yeah. I don't see Matt Cardona being anything but a guy on the roster. Honestly, you know, I mean. And I think he's fine with it. And I think he probably knows that it's. It's like he'll probably be better off than he was as Zack Ryder just because he really made himself a name outside. But, you know, I just see it's like, you know, like him.”

Meltzer then turned his attention to Ethan Page, who has impressed in NXT since his arrival. Despite Page’s charisma and promo skills, Meltzer doubts that WWE’s main roster will give him the opportunity to climb the ladder.

“You know, I think the same maybe of Ethan Page as great as he's been in NXT. If they actually brought him up, I don't know how far they would go with him. I think that for their purposes. I think they think he's a guy who can be like a top guy in NXT and Triple A, but I don't know if they're going to think the same with him on the main roster.”

Even with the talent and mic skills Page brings, Meltzer doesn’t believe he’s in line for a breakout moment—unless lightning strikes like it did for Sami Zayn with The Bloodline storyline.

“He'll be… he'll be losing Sami Zayn level character, I think would be Sami Zayn level. Yeah. Without the luck of the, you know, unless he lucks into a Bloodline.”

For fans who have watched both men work to prove themselves, it’s a disappointing ceiling to hear about. Cardona spent years building credibility outside of WWE, and Page has shown he can carry feuds with ease. But in WWE, internal perception often decides the ceiling—long before talent has the chance to break through it.

Do you think WWE is underestimating Matt Cardona and Ethan Page? Or are they being fairly slotted based on the current roster? Let us know what you think in the comments—we want to hear from you.

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