In a recent episode of his podcast, “The Extreme Life of Matt Hardy,” the wrestling legend revealed a fascinating piece of WWE history that has left fans wondering what could have been. According to Matt Hardy, there were plans in 2009 to team up with none other than the 16-time world champion, John Cena, in a high-profile storyline.
A Proposed Main Event Feud
During his podcast, Matt Hardy opened up about the canceled plans, stating, “You know, there was actually talk about us doing a big feud, and I was like, ‘Dude, this is gonna be huge.’ I mean, we were gonna be the biggest thing in the WWE at that point.” Hardy went on to explain that the idea was to create a rivalry that would culminate in a massive main event match at WrestleMania.
However, it seems that the plans never came to fruition, leaving fans to speculate about what could have been. When asked about the cancellation of the storyline, Hardy revealed that it was due to a change in creative direction within the WWE. “It was one of those things where, you know, the winds of change blow, and sometimes those plans just get swept away,” he explained.
The What-If Scenario
The idea of Matt Hardy and John Cena teaming up for a major feud is an intriguing one, especially considering the contrasting styles of the two superstars. Hardy, known for his high-flying acrobatics and hardcore wrestling style, would have likely brought a unique dynamic to the ring alongside Cena, who was (and still is) one of the most popular and dominant forces in the WWE.
While we can only imagine how this storyline would have played out, it’s clear that the potential for greatness was there. “It would have been a game-changer, no question,” Hardy said when asked about the potential impact of the feud. “I mean, who wouldn’t want to see me and John Cena going at it in the ring? It would have been huge.”
Backstage Insight from a WWE Insider
According to a WWE insider, who spoke to us on condition of anonymity, the decision to cancel the storyline was likely due to a combination of factors, including a desire to keep Cena’s character fresh and a need to focus on other creative priorities within the company.
“It’s always a delicate balance between keeping your stars fresh and pushing new talent,” the insider explained. “In this case, it seemed like the WWE was looking to keep Cena’s character in a more isolated bubble, focusing on his individual storylines rather than pairing him up with another top star.”
The Impact on Matt Hardy’s Career
While the cancellation of the storyline may have been a setback for Matt Hardy, it’s clear that he has continued to thrive in the world of professional wrestling. After leaving the WWE in 2011, Hardy went on to have a successful run in Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA), where he won the TNA World Tag Team Championship on multiple occasions.
When asked about the impact of the canceled storyline on his career, Hardy reflected on the experience, saying, “It’s funny, because sometimes you don’t realize what could have been until it’s too late. But I’ve always tried to focus on what I can control, and that’s my own performances in the ring. I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished, and I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had.”
Conclusion
The canceled 2009 plans for Matt Hardy and John Cena are a fascinating piece of WWE history that offers a glimpse into what could have been. While we can only speculate about the potential impact of the feud, it’s clear that the idea of these two superstars teaming up in the ring would have been a game-changer.
As the WWE continues to evolve and push new talent, it’s worth remembering the what-ifs of the past, like the proposed feud between Matt Hardy and John Cena. Who knows what would have happened if the winds of change had blown a different way? One thing is certain, however: the possibilities are endless in the world of professional wrestling.