"Oh Lawd!!" - Brandi Rhodes reacts to shocking WWE return on SmackDown

The first WWE SmackDown of 2026 certainly delivered several new faces and surprise moments. Among the newer stars appearing were Trick Williams and Jordynne Grace from NXT.

When it came to Kit Wilson's surprise opponent, former United States Champion Zack Ryder answered the call.

The big change was that his entrance graphics and music started with his familiar Ryder graphics, but soon changed to his real name, Matt Cardona. The former US Champion picked up a victory over Wilson, loudly announcing his return on SmackDown.

One wrestling personality who took notice was Brandi Rhodes, wife of Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. The two families have been friends for a long time, and Brandi was happy to see Cardona back.

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Michael Cole and Corey Graves confirmed that he'd signed with SmackDown as a free agent, adding a popular star to the ranks of the blue brand as it returns to a three-hour run time.

Cardona was still fresh in the minds of fans. He appeared on NXT during the brand's working relationship with TNA. He also faced LA Knight in the Last Time is Now Tournament to determine the final opponent of John Cena's career.

Matt Cardona's road back to WWE SmackDown

Cardona made his name in wrestling as Zack Ryder. He won singles and tag team gold in WWE, but was one of the numerous names released during the roster cuts of 2020 and 2021.

It was after his release that he established himself as the Indie God, winning numerous titles on the independent wrestling scene. He also had a brief stint in the newly-formed All Elite Wrestling, crossing paths with the Rhodes family.

Rhodes and Ryder had similar paths, leaving home to test their luck outside of the worldwide giant. The American Nightmare helped form AEW with Chris Jericho, Kenny Omega, the Young Bucks, and Kenny Omega.

As Cardona, he forged his own path of success, so much so that he returned to the company's radar. Since Brandi knows what it's like to leave WWE and be welcomed back, her simple reaction showcased that both she and the fans are along for the ride.

Edited by Matthew Serocki