Matt Hardy stands as a cornerstone of professional wrestling, boasting a remarkable career that spans over 32 years. From his early days in WWE to his current tenure in AEW, Hardy has left an indelible mark on the industry, both as a solo competitor and as one-half of the iconic tag team, The Hardy Boyz, alongside his brother Jeff Hardy.
Throughout his tenure in WWE, Hardy secured an impressive 16 championship reigns, solidifying his status as one of the most decorated athletes in the company’s history.
However, disagreements over creative control and the expiration of his contract led Hardy to part ways with WWE in March 2020, subsequently joining the ranks of All Elite Wrestling (AEW), where he continues to ply his trade alongside his brother.
Despite his contractual obligations to AEW, Hardy’s influence transcends promotions, as evidenced by his recent mention on WWE programming.
During a recent episode of Monday Night Raw, commentator Michael Cole referenced Hardy’s iconic match against Jeff Hardy at WrestleMania 25 while discussing the impending showdown between Jey Uso and Jimmy Uso at WrestleMania 40.
Taking to Instagram, Hardy’s wife, Reby Hardy, confirmed their attendance at the PNC Arena in Raleigh, North Carolina, during the March 18, 2024 edition of Raw. North Carolina holds special significance for Matt Hardy, as it serves as his hometown, where he was born, raised, and currently resides.
The cross-promotional nod to Hardy’s legacy on WWE television is just one example of AEW stars being acknowledged within the WWE sphere.
From Michael Cole thanking Sting on his retirement to Buddy Mathews’ appearance alongside Rhea Ripley at UFC events, and even Chris Jericho’s inclusion in Intercontinental Championship vignette tapings, the interplay between rival promotions adds an intriguing layer to the wrestling landscape.
As Matt Hardy’s influence continues to resonate across wrestling platforms, fans can expect to see more instances of cross-promotional recognition, underscoring the enduring impact of one of wrestling’s true icons.
