Matt Hardy has stepped back from his earlier claims that the WWE–TNA partnership was orchestrated to undermine AEW, offering new perspective on the controversial alliance and stirring fresh debate in the wrestling world.
The Origins of the WWE–TNA Partnership Debate
In early 2025, the wrestling landscape shifted dramatically when WWE and TNA announced a groundbreaking working relationship. The move sparked immediate speculation, with many industry insiders and fans questioning the true motivation behind the collaboration. Was this a strategic business alliance, or a calculated maneuver to blunt the surging momentum of All Elite Wrestling (AEW)?
Matt Hardy, who has performed in all three major North American promotions, was among the first high-profile figures to suggest that the partnership was designed with AEW in mind. His comments set off a wave of discussion, with personalities from all sides weighing in on the potential ramifications for the business.
Matt Hardy Walks Back His Initial Claims
In a recent appearance on his podcast, Hardy offered a more nuanced take, clarifying that his earlier remarks may have been misunderstood or overstated. Rather than framing the WWE–TNA alliance as a direct attack on AEW, Hardy now emphasizes the natural evolution of wrestling partnerships and the cyclical nature of industry politics.
“Wrestling is always changing,” Hardy explained backstage after a recent TNA taping. “I think I got a little ahead of myself. It’s easy to look at big moves like this and assume there’s a hidden agenda, but sometimes it’s just about creating new opportunities for everyone.”
According to a WWE insider, “Matt’s always been outspoken, but he’s also one of the most thoughtful guys in the locker room. He recognized that stirring the pot might not help anyone, especially with so many moving parts in the business right now.”
Tony Khan’s Response: No Hard Feelings
AEW President Tony Khan was quick to address Hardy’s original comments, taking a surprisingly diplomatic stance. During an interview on The Ariel Helwani Show, Khan acknowledged that while the timing of the WWE–TNA partnership could be interpreted as a response to AEW’s rapid rise, he doesn’t view it as a personal slight or malicious act.
“I don’t take it personally at all. If anything, it’s a compliment,” Khan said. “Whenever WWE has had real competition, they’ve tended to work with other companies. It’s just part of the wrestling playbook. AEW is a strong challenger, and that’s good for everyone.”[1][2][4]
Rather than framing the partnership as an act of aggression, Khan expressed respect for Hardy’s candor and suggested that such collaborations ultimately benefit the industry as a whole.
The Business Logic Behind WWE–TNA Collaboration
From a business perspective, the WWE–TNA partnership stands as a logical step for both companies. WWE, with its global reach and resources, benefits from fresh talent and storytelling opportunities, while TNA gains increased visibility and legitimacy through association with the industry leader.
Industry analysts point out that the move also reflects broader trends in professional wrestling, where cross-promotional relationships have become increasingly common. In recent years, fans have seen more “forbidden door” moments, with stars appearing across multiple promotions and storylines intersecting in unexpected ways.
The partnership has already yielded several headline-grabbing moments, including surprise appearances and dream matches that would have been unthinkable just a few years ago. For wrestlers like Hardy, who have traversed the major leagues, these developments represent a chance to revisit past glories and chart new paths.
Matt Hardy’s Personal Journey: From AEW Frustration to TNA Renewal
Hardy’s comments also shed light on his own professional journey. After expressing dissatisfaction with his role in AEW, where he and his brother Jeff felt underutilized, Matt has found renewed passion in TNA. “There were times in AEW when I questioned why I was still doing this,” Hardy recently shared. “Going back to TNA reignited my love for wrestling. It’s given me a chance to reconnect with the fans and do what I love on my own terms.”[3][5]
This personal renaissance has fueled Hardy’s desire to see both himself and Jeff honored by the industry’s top halls of fame. “I’d love for us to end our careers the right way, maybe get inducted into both the TNA and WWE Hall of Fame,” he said. “That would be the perfect send-off for The Hardys.”[3]
Locker Room Reaction: Competition or Collaboration?
Backstage, the mood among talent is a mix of curiosity and optimism. According to sources close to Cody Rhodes, “Most wrestlers see this as an opportunity. Sure, there’s some competition, but that’s what pushes everyone to be better. If WWE and TNA working together means more eyes on the product, then it’s a win for the fans and the wrestlers.”
Others, however, remain cautious. Some AEW veterans privately wonder if the partnership signals a new era of “warring promotions,” echoing the Monday Night Wars of the 1990s. Yet the prevailing sentiment is one of pragmatism: the wrestling business is always evolving, and adaptability is key.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Industry?
With the WWE–TNA partnership now firmly established, attention turns to what it might mean for the industry’s future. Will more inter-promotional matches and crossovers become the norm? Could AEW seek out its own alliances to maintain competitive balance? And how will these shifting dynamics affect the next generation of wrestling stars?
What’s clear is that figures like Matt Hardy, who have weathered countless changes in the business, remain at the center of the conversation—not just as competitors, but as thought leaders helping to shape the sport’s next chapter.
As Hardy concluded in a recent discussion with peers, “We’re all just trying to make wrestling better. That’s what matters at the end of the day.”
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