Final WWE comeback in 2024? - 4 directions for Jeff Hardy following reported free agency
Former WWE Champion Jeff Hardy is an icon in pro wrestling. He started his career in the 1990s and rose to prominence as one-half of The Hardy Boyz during the Attitude Era. Over time, he won numerous titles, including World Championship belts.
Hardy has been in and out of World Wrestling Entertainment over the past two and decades or so, most recently leaving the company for a spot in All Elite Wrestling. His time there is seemingly coming to an end, however, as his contract is about to expire.
Reports are already coming out regarding the former World Champion's future. Some believe that Jeff is heading to TNA Wrestling sooner rather than later, while others predict he could return to the biggest pro wrestling company in the world.
This article will take a look at a handful of directions for The Charismatic Enigma, with a specific focus on World Wrestling Entertainment-related routes. This includes one more epic run, the return of a tag team, and beyond.
Below are four directions for Jeff Hardy following his reported free agency.
#4. He could return to WWE for one last run and challenge Damian Priest
Damian Priest is one of the top champions in WWE. He is the current World Heavyweight Champion, having won the title by cashing in his Money in the Bank briefcase at WrestleMania XL Sunday.
The Archer of Infamy has a major title defense this weekend. He will put his prized World Heavyweight Championship on the line against Drew McIntyre at WWE Clash at the Castle Scotland, which will air live in Glasgow.
Supposing Damian retains his gold, he will soon need a new challenger. Jeff Hardy could potentially return to the company for one more big run on top and in doing so, he may challenge Priest for the coveted title. Win or lose, this would put Jeff in a major position for potentially the final time.
#3. The Hardy Boyz could return as a tag team
While Jeff Hardy found a lot of success as a singles competitor in both WWE and TNA Wrestling, he may forever be best known as one-half of The Hardy Boyz. They were arguably the most popular tag team of the famed Attitude Era and beyond.
Jeff isn't the only former WWE Superstar to part ways with All Elite Wrestling. Matt Hardy recently left as well. While Matt has appeared in TNA, it isn't clear if he has a contract with the promotion. If not, he could end up appearing alongside Jeff on RAW or SmackDown.
Both brands have a stacked tag team division. The Hardy Boyz hooking up with the likes of DIY, New Catch Republic, Authors of Pain, Legado del Fantasma, the LWO, Pretty Deadly, and beyond could lead to some exciting matches.
#2. He could return to NXT to help the next generation
NXT is WWE's third brand, with a focus on developing the stars of tomorrow. Some of the major names tearing it up on the main roster are products of NXT. In fact, almost the entirety of the main roster went through NXT at some stage.
Jeff Hardy's return to WWE could see him go to the white and gold brand. Jeff could offer his wisdom and decades of experience to help the next generation develop.
Beyond just helping talent grow, Jeff Hardy going to NXT could be beneficial for the brand in general. NXT is moving to The CW in a few months and will need some notable names to attract viewers to the network. A legend like Jeff Hardy would certainly fit that role.
#1. Jeff could sign with TNA Wrestling and represent them at a Worlds Collide event
Given how rumors state that Jeff Hardy may be TNA-bound, it is important to consider that it may be a very real possibility. Both he and his brother Matt Hardy could end up working in TNA for the foreseeable future.
That doesn't mean he can't work for WWE at the same time, however. WWE and TNA have seemingly forged a working relationship. This has led to four appearances by TNA Knockouts Champion Jordynne Grace and an appearance from Ash By Elegance at NXT Battleground.
Many believe that a Worlds Collide-style Premium Live Event could take place in the future with NXT and TNA stars clashing. If Jeff is in TNA, he could represent the company in a battle against one of NXT's shining stars. Perhaps Trick Williams could clash with The Charismatic Enigma at a Worlds Collide show? The possibilities are endless.