The Journey of the Hardy Boys: Why They Left WWE and Their New Ventures

The world of professional wrestling has seen its fair share of significant departures over the years, and among the most memorable is the move of ring legends Jeff Hardy and Matt Hardy from WWE to AEW All Elite Wrestling. Both brothers embarked on their journey with WWE, making memorable impacts, only to eventually leave due to differing reasons and choices. This article delves into the personal and professional backgrounds leading to their exits from WWE and the new adventures they pursued post-departure.

Jeff Hardy's Departure from WWE

Jeff Hardy was released from WWE in December 2021, after a series of events that significantly affected his status within the company. The key moment that led to his departure was during a live event where Hardy appeared dazed and disoriented. This incident resulted in WWE indicating their intention to offer him rehabilitation support to address any underlying issues. However, Jeff Hardy ultimately chose to leave WWE under these circumstances, rather than undergoing the proposed rehabilitation program.

The departure took viewers by surprise, as Hardy had been an integral part of the WWE ecosystem for an extended period. He had established a loyal fan base and had contributed significantly to the promotion's storyline and entertainment value. The reason behind his decision to leave the company was multifaceted. Hardy, who has been open about his personal struggles, likely sought an environment that would support his mental and physical health more effectively.

Matt Hardy's Departure from WWE

Matt Hardy's departure from WWE was completely different from his brother's. It occurred in March 2020, an event that was not linked to any immediate incident but rather to the expiration of his contract. Unlike Jeff, Matt had been with WWE multiple times, showcasing his versatility as a wrestler. However, as his contract was slated to expire, he chose not to re-sign, leading to his departure.

The reasons behind his choice to leave WWE were more about creative vision and career progression. Matt Hardy had repeatedly expressed his dissatisfaction with how WWE utilized his talent and vision. He felt that his creative input was not always valued, and he was not given the flexibility to explore new storylines and challenges. Matt's decision to join AEW All Elite Wrestling was a strategic move to restart his career on his own terms.

The Importance of Creative Freedom and Personal Well-being

Both Jeff Hardy and Matt Hardy have emphasized the importance of creative freedom and personal well-being in their eventual decisions to leave WWE. They found that their desire to have more control over their careers and the ability to work in a creative environment was not being met at WWE.

Jeff Hardy's experience led him to seek a more supportive environment, while Matt Hardy's focus was more on freedom and flexibility. These factors are crucial for professional athletes and entertainers, as they impact both their physical and mental health.

Challenges and Success in AEW All Elite Wrestling

In AEW, both Jeff and Matt Hardy have found new opportunities to express their creativity and reignite their passion for professional wrestling. Jeff has engaged with a new and vibrant fan base, while Matt has been able to showcase his skills in new and exciting storylines. The transition has been positive for both, as they continue to make their mark in the wrestling world.

AEW has provided a platform for creative freedom, allowing both brothers to work on projects that align with their vision and interests. This new chapter in their careers has been both thrilling and challenging, but they are committed to making the most of the opportunities presented to them.

Conclusion

The departures of Jeff Hardy and Matt Hardy from WWE were significant events in the world of professional wrestling. Their decisions to leave were driven by a desire for personal well-being, creative freedom, and reinvigorating their careers. Both Hardy brothers have found new homes in AEW, where they continue to entertain and inspire fans around the globe.

Key Takeaways

Key Takeaway 1: Creative freedom and personal well-being play a vital role in an athlete's decision to leave a company.

Key Takeaway 2: Successful transitions to new environments can lead to new opportunities and rejuvenated careers.

Key Takeaway 3: Both Jeff Hardy and Matt Hardy have found new homes in AEW, where they continue to excel in professional wrestling.