Select Portions: Hayes & Prichard, Hardy Boyz, Upcoming Shows

• In regards to Michael Hayes and Bruce Prichard being on temporary leave, Hayes is out for personal reasons and hasn't been backstage in recent weeks. Prichard's absence is for family reasons. We will respect their privacy during the absence. They are both expected back. Neither one of these absences are Vince McMahon related, for conspiracy theorists.

•  There are a number of NXT talent who aren't being brought up for tonight's NXT show in Philly.

• We'll have interviews with Brett Lauderdale and Vinny Pacifico in the coming weeks.

• Fightful will have a presence at both WrestleCade and Survivor Series this year.

• Jimmy Van is out of the office today, Sean Ross Sapp will host the "What's Up You Guys?" Q&A show on Fightful's Youtube. https://www.youtube.com/live/DDlLmfSMKX8

Hardy Boyz

Fightful had the opportunity to speak with TNA Tag Team Champions The Hardy Boyz. Fightful’s Sean Ross Sapp mentioned fundraising efforts for fellow wrestler Chris Bey, who recently faced a serious health incident in the ring at a TNA iMPACT taping in Detroit on October 27th. Jeff and  Matt provided an update, saying he is recovering and thanking everyone for their support. They added that fundraising efforts are underway through GoFundMe and planned events at the upcoming Fayetteville show, led by TNA’s Alisha Edwards.

Sean mentioned Jeff’s creative contribution to their recent Ladder Match at Bound For Glory. Jeff discussed his idea for a unique ladder match and mentioned posting the process on Instagram. Jeff reflected on the match’s distinctive look and feel, noting it was an unprecedented artistic concept in wrestling. 

Jeff and Matt praised their opponents, Ace Austin and Chris Bey, for their performance, improving the match’s overall quality. Jeff shared that he has a vision for a future match that combines all his passions, including music. He imagines a "Full Metal Mayhem" rematch where he could incorporate his original music.

Sean notes that Matt and Jeff’s work has inspired younger fans and backyard wrestling communities. They recount fan reactions to their match's artistic setup, highlighting the audience’s enthusiasm for their innovations.

Sean recalled an interview in which former WWE Superstar Eric Watts (Tekno Team 2000) claimed he inspired the Hardys' style. Jeff and Matt do not remember the conversation but said Michael Hayes developed their unique style choices. They share how they created their iconic look with clothing from Gadzooks.

The conversation then shifts over to WWE Hall of Famer Sting. Matt shared his admiration for Sting’s retirement match, which he believes was exceptionally well-booked. They express their respect for Sting, who was a major influence and inspiration, and desire for a similar send-off. Regarding Sting’s retirement, Matt said, “We're both passionate about this. We love it. We enjoy it. I would like to bookend our career and whatever we do in some scenario, much like Sting's.”

Matt added that he thought it was some of Tony Khan’s best bookings. Matt told Sean, “I think Sting's retirement match is the best booking that Tony Khan has done overall. I thought it was pitch-perfect. I thought he nailed it.” Matt also notes that Sting still inspires them both.

Sean mentioned the careers of three people Matt worked with during his tenure at AEW: Private Party and Ethan Page. Matt said MJF introduced him to Ethan Page, which led to their collaboration in AEW. Matt praised Page’s talent and creativity and wished that Page was more prominently featured during his time in AEW. Matt says he is thrilled about Private Party’s success, noting their development and the support from The Young Bucks, who helped showcase Private Party’s abilities in a significant match.

Matt said The Bucks made Private Party look like a million bucks. Matt stated, “They really knew what they had to do to make those guys and they did a great job in that match, both teams. I'm so proud of all four of those guys and their efforts in that match.”

Matt would add that he’s seen so much growth with Isaiah of Private Party while working with Isaiah and Page in AEW.

Jeff and Matt reflected on the Firm Deletion match at the Hardy Compound. They spoke about the dedication to creating unique props and elements, like Jeff’s “briar corner,” which unfortunately couldn’t be used due to weather.

In closing, Sean asked The Hardys who had hit them the hardest in their career. Matt named Bob Holly. Jeff recalled a tough chair shout in a match back in 1995 but did not name the wrestler.

You can follow Matt and Jeff Hardy on social media. Follow Jeff on X and Instagram at @JeffHardyBrand and Matt at @MattHardyBrand.

Youtube Link: https://youtu.be/HObB11njqa0