Even while he was teaming with his brother Matt as the Hardy Boyz, it was always believed that Jeff would eventually branch out and become a huge singles star. One person who seemingly shared that belief was Vince McMahon.
As his career progressed Jeff Hardy became known for his array of death-defying in-ring stunts and unique look. Meanwhile on commentary he was often praised as a “young Shawn Michaels.” After finding enormous success as part of the Hardy Boyz, Jeff went on to win numerous singles titles before finally becoming World Champion in 2009.
Vince McMahon Liked Jeff Hardy’s “Rock Star Complex”
Despite reaching incredible highs in the ring, Jeff Hardy has also faced some well-documented demons outside of it. These demons led to the ‘Charismatic Enigma’ being released by WWE in 2003, before returning in 2006.
Speaking on a recent episode of his Extreme Life of Matt Hardy podcast, the star discussed his brother’s return to WWE. During the conversation, Matt broke down why Vince McMahon was drawn to Jeff.
“I think Vince liked Jeff a lot, he could tell he was different, he was out there. I mean, when people say charismatic Enigma, that is like the perfect description of who he is. Because he’s like this guy who’s like, overflowing with charisma. And he’s also so enigmatic, like, you don’t understand why he’s doing what he’s doing, but it’s just f*cking cool that he’s doing it. You know, it’s just, he has a very interesting dynamic.
I think Vince saw a lot of his personality shining through and saw, hey, I like that rock star complex. Because Jeff, I still think, at the end of the day, Jeff is just like in his head, he’s like the most humble guy you’ll ever meet. He’s the nicest guy who would give anybody the shirt off his back. But in his head, he’s like f*ck, man, I’m like a rock star, I’m Jeff Hardy, you know.
I think that is in the back of his mind, and that he just acts that way. So that’s why he just comes off so cool all the time. And I think Vince picked that up right off the jump, and that attracted him to Jeff.”
Jeff Hardy left WWE again in 2009 before returning for the third time in 2017. The star remained with the company for four years, eventually being released after “acting erratically” at a live event. Four months after being let go Jeff joined his brother Matt in AEW.
Jeff Hardy is currently serving a suspension after being arrested in June 2022.
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