The coveted title of “Indy God” in the independent professional wrestling circuit has long been associated with Matt Cardona, a moniker he embraced during his extensive championship runs in smaller promotions following his 2020 WWE departure. However, with Cardona’s return to WWE in 2025, the question of who now holds this prestigious title has arisen, and Shotzi Blackheart is making a strong case for herself.
The Reign of the ‘Indy God’
Matt Cardona, after being released from WWE, revitalized his career by becoming a dominant force on the independent scene. He collected numerous championships across various promotions, including Game Changer Wrestling, House of Glory, Juggalo Championship Wrestling, and World Series Wrestling, solidifying his claim to the “Indy God” title. Upon rejoining WWE, the unofficial crown was seemingly up for grabs.
In previous comments, Cardona himself suggested that while no single individual currently held the “Indy God” title outright, he identified several wrestlers who were emerging as top talents. Among those he mentioned were Shotzi Blackheart, Richard Holliday, and Ben Bishop. This acknowledgment from Cardona, however, has been interpreted differently by Blackheart.
Blackheart’s Bold Assertion
When presented with Cardona’s remarks, Shotzi Blackheart confidently asserted that he indeed recognizes her as the current “Indy God.” “I think he knows that I am. Like, come on,” she stated. Blackheart pointed to her significant victory over Cardona in the voting for Pro Wrestling Illustrated’s (PWI) Independent Wrestler of the Year award, highlighting that her win was by a substantial margin.
“I know that he was signed by the time the polls came out for the independent wrestler of the year, PWI’s independent wrestler of the year. But I beat him by a lot. By a lot,” Blackheart explained. “So, yeah, I think like the fans know it. I’ve beaten him in the ring. I beat him in the magazine.”
She further elaborated on her claim, suggesting that Cardona needs to openly acknowledge her status. “And I think he’s just got to say it. He’s just got to admit it,” she urged. “Like he keeps trying to say, ‘Oh man, I mean maybe like also Ben Bishop and Richard (Holliday).’ No, shut up! It’s Shotzi Blackheart and you know it. Like come on.”
A Legacy Forged in the Indies
Blackheart emphasized the unique impact she and others have had on the independent wrestling scene, creating “something really special.” She believes that their innovative storytelling and meaningful narratives set them apart. “We created something special on the indies. Not a lot of people are doing really big storylines that like really mean something and he has to admit we created something special and I’m the ‘Indy God.’ I’m everywhere.”
Blackheart’s Recent Triumphs
Shotzi Blackheart’s claim is backed by a highly active and successful recent schedule. Throughout the spring, she competed in numerous matches globally. She made a significant impact in Major League Wrestling (MLW), capturing the MLW Women’s World Championship.
Her independent endeavors continue. Blackheart is slated to participate in a 10-woman battle royal at Awesome Championship Wrestling’s (ACW) Indypendence Day event in Poughkeepsie, New York. This match will determine the No. 1 contender for the ACW Women’s Championship.
In addition to her MLW title, Blackheart also holds the House of Glory Women’s Championship and the Atomic Legacy Wrestling Women’s Championship, underscoring her widespread success and influence in the independent wrestling landscape.
The Future of the ‘Indy God’ Title
The debate over who truly embodies the “Indy God” title highlights the vibrant and competitive nature of independent professional wrestling. While Matt Cardona established a significant legacy, Shotzi Blackheart’s recent achievements, championship reigns, and vocal assertion suggest a potential shift in the landscape. Her success across multiple promotions and her recognition by fans and peers alike position her as a formidable contender for the unofficial crown, a testament to her dedication and impact on the sport.
