Zack Ryder came “this close” to spending all of 2018 on the bench, but managed to find his way onto the final episode of WWE RAW this Monday night as a competitor in a “Fresh Start” Battle Royale.

The former Intercontinental Champion was unfortunately unsuccessful in his attempt to secure a future title opportunity, and caught up with cameras backstage after the match to discuss a year that even he admits may have been the worst of his 12-year career on the WWE main roster.

“Thirteen years I’ve been here — twelve years on the main roster. Tag team champion, U.S. Champion, Intercontinental Champion. But this year may have been the worst of my career. I haven’t been injured. I’ve been sitting back, patiently waiting. I know whenever I get that opportunity I’m going to make the most of it. I know my worth. I know my value. I know I can go toe-to-toe with anyone backstage, in that ring. Night in, night out, I know I can deliver. I know I have one of the best physiques. I know I have one of the most-followed social media accounts. I know I have it all, and all I need is that one chance.”