Matt Hardy's contract comments were a message to Tony Khan

Matt Hardy. Derik Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports

Matt Hardy's comments on his contract status were a message to Tony Khan

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 3/22/24

Matt Hardy has been the subject of recent speculation. He and his wife, Reby, posted videos of them attending a recent WWE event in Raleigh, N.C.

Hardy's contract with AEW is set for renewal, which has led some to believe he could be returning to WWE.

During a recent episode of his "Extreme Life" podcast, Hardy discussed the current speculation surrounding his future.

"If you are trying to secure me under contract, I’m a guy you want," Hardy said. "...I do love AEW. There are some things I would like to change about my personal career there, and some of the things we’re doing, but overall I love AEW because it is very important for the pro wrestling industry...At the end of the day, when it comes to making a decision about what I do next, it also comes down to making sure I’m happy and I’m comfortable with what I’m doing in all capacities across the board.”

Hardy's comments are compelling. However, they can also be construed as an ultimatum. His tenure with AEW hasn't highlighted him as a star talent. He and Jeff Hardy haven't featured heavily within the tag-team division. There has been little storyline surrounding the duo, or Matt as a solo wrestler.

As such, the Hardys have found themselves wrestling mid-card matches with little purpose. It's unlikely that ghdy would wish to continue operating with such anonymity, considering how experienced and popular they are among the wider wrestling world.

Still, there's no telling what type of interest WWE would have in Hardy returning to the company. His stock has undoubtedly fallen over the past two years.

Nevertheless, it's clear that Tony Khan has a decision to make, and it goes beyond how much to pay one of his initial star additions. Hardy is a genuine veteran. He's likely still capable of producing good spots.

If Khan can't reach an agreement with the star veteran, he may lose both Matt and Jeff before the end of the year.

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