Matt Cardonas surprise return to WWE has already stirred up major waves across the wrestling scene and it didnt take long for fans to start firing shots. But not everyone is staying silent about it.
After Cardona officially relinquished the ACW World Championship ahead of the promotions January 5, 2026 show, fans quickly took to social media to criticize the self-proclaimed Indy God for walking away from his indie commitments. One fans viral comment summed up the backlash with a sarcastic jab:
That line caught fire, but it also caught the attention of TNA Wrestling star Steph De Lander, who wasnt about to let the slander slide. De Lander, who previously shared an alliance with Cardona on the indie scene, stepped in with a direct and honest defense:
Her response reflects a reality that often gets lost in the discourse wrestlers under contract to WWE usually cant work outside dates once theyre officially signed. Cardonas return to WWE forced him to vacate not just the ACW World Title, but also put his JCW status into question after winning their top belt just days earlier.
Cardonas indie farewell has clearly come with complications, but for Steph De Lander, the blame game is unnecessary. Sometimes, a wrestlers dream doesnt fit neatly into every fans fantasy booking and thats just part of the business.
Do you agree with Steph De Landers defense of Cardona? Or do fans have a point about unfinished business? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
