20-year veteran issues a massive challenge to former WWE Superstar Dolph Ziggler

A wrestling veteran with two decades of experience in the squared circle has issued an open challenge to former WWE Superstar Dolph Ziggler (now Nic Nemeth). The star in question is Matt Cardona!

Following a 19-year tenure with World Wrestling Entertainment, Ziggler was let go in September 2023. The former World Heavyweight Champion made his NJPW debut and has introduced the brand new "Wanted Man" gimmick to the wrestling world.

On January 12, The Indy God (fka Zack Ryder) could not compete at GCW No Compadre due to a flight cancellation. However, the star still addressed the fans by cutting a wild promo via satellite and putting former WWE stars Mustafa Ali and AJ Francis on notice for a future showdown.

But Matt Cardona saved the juiciest bone for Nic Nemeth: an open challenge, ready to rumble whenever, wherever. During his satellite promo, Ryder left no stone unturned to remind The Showoff that he lost the WWE United States Champion to him in 2011.

"Let me remind you, Nic. I’m the man that beat you to become the WWE United States Champion, and I fully intend to beat you again. So here we are. I’m laying out the challenge right here. Nic Nemeth, Matt Cardona. You name the time, you name the place, it doesn’t matter to me because I’m Alwayz Ready," Cardona said. (H/T Fightful)

WWE Hall of Famer credits Dolph Ziggler's ability

Hall of Famer Rob Van Dam recently credited the former WWE Superstar's ability to outwork everybody.

Speaking on an episode of his 1 Of A Kind podcast, Van Dam appreciated Nic Nemeth as he embarks upon a new journey after World Wrestling Entertainment. The 53-year-old legend mentioned Dolph Ziggler can outwork anyone, and it was great to work with him.

"I’ve always enjoyed his company, hanging out with him, joking around with him, and I think he’s a great wrestler. It’s not just outlasting everybody, but it’s being able to outwork everybody, and staying in there for decades. Eventually, you might get noticed,” Rob said.

Fans are excited to see The Showoff back in the ring following his release from WWE. He is set to square off against David Finlay at NJPW's New Beginning show next month for the IWGP Global Championship.

Do you think Dolph Ziggler will respond to Matt Cardona's challenge? Sound off in the comments section below.