WATCH: Former WWE star returns to AEW and challenges Adam Copeland for a title match on Collision

Matt Cardona was once a part of La Familia in WWE, which was led by none other than Adam Copeland.

WATCH: Former WWE star returns to AEW and challenges Adam Copeland for a title match on Collision

Matt Cardona challenges Adam Copeland (via AEW and @WrestlingFan91_/X)

Adam Copeland became the TNT Champion on last week’s Dynamite by defeating Christian Cage in an “I Quit” Match. The Rated-R Superstar then vowed to begin open challenges for the title on weekly television. As such, he came out on last night’s Collision, hoping for an AEW star to challenge him. However, it ended up being not only an outsider but a man he’s very much familiar with: Matt Cardona.

To the shock of the crowd in Budweiser Gardens, The Indy King made his way to the ring. There was no prior report or even speculation surrounding his return to the Jacksonville-based promotion. As expected, Copeland and Cardona put on a PPV-worthy bout on television. At the start, a wonderful moment took place when the audience gave a standing ovation to the two former WWE stars.

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Obviously, both have their fair share of history. During Adam Copeland‘s run as the top heel on SmackDown in 2008, the former Zack Ryder was one of his henchmen as one half of The Edgeheads alongside Curt Hawkins. Therefore, for fans to see The Deathmatch King squaring off against the TNT Champion was a sight to behold. 

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Whether or not this was a one-time deal is yet to be confirmed. Since his WWE release, Matt Cardona has gone on to become the face of the independent circuit. Moreover, he has set an example of how professional wrestlers can succeed without competing in the major leagues. Meanwhile, Copeland joined AEW in October 2023 after his contract with WWE expired. After engaging in a six-month feud with his former best friend, he may’ve found a new dance partner.

Malakai Black confronts Adam Copeland on AEW Collision

After his hard-fought win over Matt Cardona, another surprise lied in wait for Adam Copeland. As he stood in the ring, celebrating his win, the lights went off, and Malakai Black appeared to confront the TNT Champion. The House of Black member seemingly posed as the next challenger for the title.

Malakai Black and Adam Copeland
Malakai Black and Adam Copeland (via Fightful Wrestling on X)

However, Copeland was attacked by Buddy Matthews. Moments later, Mark Briscoe and Eddie Kingston ended up coming to the aid of the Rated-R Superstar. In a backstage segment, the trio challenged House of Black to a six-man tag team match at Dynasty, which didn’t take long to be confirmed. 

Many were perplexed, as many expected a singles championship bout between Copeland and Black. Needless to say, fans will have to wait and see if that is the direction. Meanwhile, two of the former WWE Champion’s teammates, Briscoe and Kingston, will face each other at ROH Supercard of Honor.

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