WWE Hall of Famer Jeff Jarrett recently praised Jeff Hardy, known for his time in TNA Wrestling and WWE, highlighting that very few former WWE stars have been able to connect with audiences as deeply as Hardy has. On his “My World” podcast, Jarrett reflected on the 2010 Slammiversary event, which happened shortly after Hardy’s return to TNA. Jarrett pointed out Hardy’s exceptional charisma, noting fans were instantly captivated by him.
Jarrett shared how, even in creative meetings, doubts about Hardy’s ability to carry a promotion would arise, but Hardy’s undeniable connection with fans, backed by impressive social media metrics and fan interaction, always proved those doubts wrong. He described Hardy as a figure full of “charismatic mystery” and an “enigma” who consistently amazed people with his appeal. Jarrett also recalled a conversation with someone in WWE’s merchandise department during Hardy’s peak, revealing that Hardy’s popularity in arenas was on par with top stars like John Cena.
Hardy’s second stint at TNA lasted seven years and was more impactful than his initial run, followed by another return to WWE, further cementing his legacy.
Fan Take: For AEW fans, Jarrett’s praise underscores the timeless influence of wrestlers like Jeff Hardy, who combine charisma with a deep fan connection. This serves as a reminder of the kind of star power and emotional engagement AEW strives to cultivate, which is crucial for the ongoing growth and excitement of professional wrestling.
