After nearly six years away from WWE programming, the iconic tag team duo of Matt and Jeff Hardy is set to make their explosive return to WWE NXT on February 25, 2025, following their recent call-out by TNA's No Quarter Catch Crew (NQCC). The Hardy Boyz, widely regarded as one of the greatest tag teams of all time, are accepting this challenge as reigning TNA World Tag Team Champions.
The challenge came during the February 18 edition of NXT, when the No Quarter Catch Crew, led by Tavion Heights and Myles Borne, threw down the gauntlet after confronting NXT champions Nathan Frazer and Axiom. The NQCC aimed to make their mark by targeting the highest-rated athletes, and who could be higher on their list than the Hardys? “We’re chasing gold, and it’s not going to be the ones on your shoulders. We want to face, in our opinion, the best tag team in the world... possibly of all time,” Heights stated as he made his intentions clear.
Seeing their names mentioned on NXT programming took both Matt and Jeff by surprise. “I did not expect to tune in to NXT programming tonight and hear our names called out on it, much less challenged to a match,” Matt Hardy responded via social media. Despite the surprise, he expressed flattery at the attention, which was met with full enthusiasm from his brother Jeff who quipped, “Of course we should accept the challenge.”
Innovators of the sport, the Hardy Boyz have always been known for their high-flying style and charisma. Matt continued, “We’re still innovatin’, we’re still influencing, we’re still inspiring, and we’re still modifying the craft of pro wrestling.” This reiterates not only their legacy but also their excitement about stepping back inside the squared circle.
This match marks the first time Matt and Jeff will compete together on WWE television since their unforgettable appearance at WrestleMania 33, where they made their shocking return to WWE after years of wrestling elsewhere. Their last match together was on WWE SmackDown on April 9, 2019, where they dethroned The Usos for the tag team championship. Their comeback is not merely nostalgic; it's also emblematic of their enduring legacy and the influence they continue to exert on the wrestling world.
The Hardy Boyz' return has significant ramifications for the wrestling world, particularly due to the recently solidified partnership between WWE and TNA, which includes talent exchanges. This new arrangement heralds future collaborations and appearances from stars of both promotions, yet the return of Matt and Jeff Hardy stands as potentially the most exciting crossover.
Sports experts and fans alike have anticipated this moment as more than just another match; it's perceived as the full circle for the brothers. After facing various challenges and pursuing their individual careers—Jeff dealing with personal battles and Matt redefining his character across different promotions—this return to WWE reflects their resilience and passion for wrestling.
“Hey, Fraxium. Pull up a front-row seat and watch us beat the No Quarter Catch Crew,” said Matt, delivering a warning to the current NXT champions, who had wrongly anticipated being challenged themselves. He added, “After a plot twist, a Twist of Fate, and a Swanton, you’ll realize why we are the best, the GOATs.” The hard-hitting nature of their reply, especially directed at NXT champions Fraxiom, shows they aren’t just entering the ring casually—they’re coming to reclaim the spotlight.
For wrestling fans, next week's NXT is shaping up to be unmissable. With historic names like the Hardys returning alongside talent such as TNA X-Division champion Moose, who is also scheduled to appear, the card is stacked with excitement. Moose will be defending his title against Lexis King, adding more intrigue to the night.
WWE’s chief content officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque weighed in, calling the Hardys game-changers: “The Hardys have redefined tag team wrestling for more than 25 years.” This acknowledgment from one of WWE’s top officials confirms the legacy the brothers have forged.
Matt and Jeff Hardy's return isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about excitement and innovation, showcasing their willingness to challenge for the TNA Tag Team titles within the WWE ring. The story of their legendary careers continues to evolve with each match and appearance, captivating new and old fans alike.
The anticipation surrounding the upcoming episode of NXT is palpable as the wrestling community gears up for what promises to be one of the most historic returns to the ring. With their acceptance of the challenge set for February 25, the Hardy Boyz are poised to once again make waves, confirming they are willing to fight not just for titles but for legacy and history itself.