Professional wrestler Matt Hardy analyzed the relationship between CM Punk and All Elite Wrestling on his podcast, ahead of his scheduled promotional appearance in Boston on June 27, 2026.
Hardy shared his insights during an episode of "The Extreme Life of Matt Hardy," addressing rumors regarding Punk's professional status following recent wrestling events.
"Once you become such a big star it's pretty hard to burn a bridge in some ways," said Hardy.
He elaborated on the financial dynamics governing major stars within the professional wrestling industry, noting that fan connection often influences organizational decisions.
"If you know you're someone who can make money and sell tickets, and there's people interested in you, and they're emotionally connected to you, usually bridges can be rebuilt," Hardy added.
The discussion turned toward a hypothetical on-screen rivalry involving Punk and The Young Bucks, capitalizing on prior real-life backstage tensions.
"It would've done huge business for AEW and it would have created a great amount of buzz," Hardy said.
According to the transcription by Wrestling Inc., Hardy indicated that such a storyline could have provided significant commercial advantages for the promotion.
"It would have helped elevate the company, in all reality," he said.
Hardy further contrasted Punk's previous influence within AEW against his current operational environment in WWE.
"He knew he had a hold on Tony Khan, to a degree, that he could kind of get away with what he wanted," Hardy said.
The veteran performer concluded his analysis by noting how corporate structures alter individual behavior and expectations.
"When he came back to WWE, I think he knew he couldn't get away with that same type of attitude or mentality," Hardy said.
Following these comments, TNA Wrestling announced that Matt and Jeff Hardy will host the first-ever Broken Hardy Party at the Harpoon Brewery in Boston on Saturday, June 27.
The intimate fan experience will commence at 7 p. m.
and feature a live Q&A session alongside autograph and photo opportunities.
The promotional tour precedes TNA Wrestling's flagship summer event, Slammiversary, scheduled for Sunday, June 28, at the Agganis Arena on the Boston University campus.
The pay-per-view showcase will feature the entire TNA roster, including Mike Santana, Nic Nemeth, Frankie Kazarian, and Mustafa Ali.
