WWE almost went with another major name before locking in Joe Hendry
Summary
– WWE considered a current TNA wrestler to face Randy Orton at WrestleMania 41
– Jeff Hardy was internally discussed before Joe Hendry was selected
– The move signals growing collaboration between WWE and TNA
WrestleMania 41 nearly featured a shocking return from a TNA legend, as Jeff Hardy was reportedly discussed to face Randy Orton in a surprise match slot.
With Kevin Owens pulled from the card due to neck surgery, WWE was forced to find Orton’s last-minute opponent. While TNA’s Joe Hendry ultimately received the nod, PW Nexus’s Cory Hays confirmed that Hardy—currently under TNA contract—was seriously considered for the spot.
Joe Hendry entered a warm reaction in Las Vegas, wearing a custom WrestleMania tee before falling to an RKO. According to Fightful Select, Hendry’s appearance was kept under wraps even within TNA, with talent learning about the move only a day before the show.
Hardy’s name surfacing in internal talks points to a growing willingness by WWE to explore cross-promotional surprises. A former WWE Champion and WrestleMania mainstay, Hardy would have electrified fans had the return materialized.
This development raises the possibility of future collaborations between WWE and TNA—and keeps the door open for Hardy’s return to the big stage.
