Zack Ryder sent a heartfelt message to his wife today following his surprise WWE return. The veteran spent the past few years competing on the independent wrestling scene as Matt Cardona.There is a tournament underway to determine John Cena's last opponent at Saturday Night's Main Event on December 13. The Cenation Leader defeated Dominik Mysterio this past Monday night on RAW in an impromptu match to win the Intercontinental Championship.Zack Ryder returned to the promotion this past Friday night on SmackDown to battle LA Knight in the first round of the "Last Time is Now" tournament. Ryder got a great reaction from the fans in attendance, but was unable to defeat The Megastar to advance in the tournament.Ryder is married to Chelsea Green in real life, and he thanked her for staying by his side today on social media. You can check out his heartfelt message in the Instagram post below."Thank you @chelseaagreen for being by my side for this wild ride. I love you," he wrote. View this post on Instagram Instagram PostChelsea Green recently defeated Giulia on SmackDown to capture the Women's United States Championship for the second time. She is also aligned with NXT star Ethan Page, and the duo are the reigning AAA World Mixed Tag Team Champions.Zack Ryder comments on WWE returnZack Ryder shared his thoughts following his surprise WWE return this past Friday night on WWE SmackDown.The former Intercontinental Champion was interviewed backstage following his loss to LA Knight and noted he had been working hard for the past several years on the independent wrestling scene. Ryder added that he will be ready when another opportunity comes his way."I’ve busted my a** for the past five years. Death Match King, the Indy-God, the complete, all for this moment. This might be a one-time shot. I might get the call tomorrow. It doesn’t matter. Because I’m Zack Ryder, I’m always ready. Woo woo woo, you know it,” he added.WWE @WWELINKNO WAY!!! Zack Ryder is @RealLAKnight's mystery opponent 🤯Ryder has established a loyal fan base during his time in the wrestling business. It will be interesting to see what WWE has planned for the 40-year-old moving forward following his return on SmackDown.