Matt and Jeff Hardy had many reasons for returning to TNA, including knowing they could be put in front of familiar crowds.
The Hardys spoke with WrestleZone Managing Editor Bill Pritchard about their return to TNA earlier this year. The brothers are still very popular around the world and regularly attract massive lines at autograph signings, including at WrestleCade near their home in North Carolina.
Before their official return, did they have talks about how and where they were used in TNA?
“Yes. I was very proactive in discussing going to Fayetteville, going to Raleigh. I knew [TNA] were going to take part and participate in the WrestleCade Weekend. So yeah, I thought that was beneficial,” Matt Hardy said. “I think we are very much hometown boys and we have a strong fanbase here. So, yeah, we did have a say on that and I was interested in that.”
Matt said it’s great because they are popular in many regions, and TNA is finding success by leaning into things that have grown organically.
All aboard!
“The first thing that stands out is Joe Hendry. Joe Hendry is authentically, genuinely, legitimately, organically over. People, they grew and they attached to him in such a natural way and he became such a big star. He’s viral. A lot of what he’s doing now, still reminds me of when Broken Matt Hardy and Brother Nero first got hot, because he is viral everywhere. So, that’s great. The crossover between NXT/WWE and TNA I think that’s very beneficial,” Matt continued. “It adds so much unpredictability to the shows both TNA and NXT. And I think it’s really a great example of how to do a relationship between wrestling brands. I think they’re doing a fantastic job.
“And then myself and Jeff, we’re kind of the older ‘living legends’ who can still compete at a pretty high level and can still go out there,” Matt said. “And if you put us in a position to succeed, we can still do box office. So, it feels great and they’re leaning into all these things. And you feel so much momentum happening right now, because the last seven, eight pay-per-views or Premium Live Events or their TV tapings and there’s been sellouts. And that’s tremendous for TNA. They’re on to something right now and it’s really hot. And I want everybody to join the TNA train. Because it is rolling and it’s full steam ahead.”
Check out our full interview with The Hardys below:
