Following the abrupt end to “Main Event” Jey Uso’s first World Heavyweight Championship reign, wrestling veteran Matt Hardy weighed in on the decision. Speaking on the latest episode of the Extreme Life podcast, Hardy dismissed concerns that the short run could damage Uso’s standing, framing it as a crucial step in his career.
Jey Uso’s journey to the championship culminated at WrestleMania 41 with a victory over GUNTHER, but the reign concluded at 51 days. During the main event of the June 9 edition of WWE RAW in Phoenix, GUNTHER reclaimed the title, forcing Uso to pass out in a Sleeper Hold.
The rematch was the climax of a build-up where GUNTHER had questioned Uso’s worthiness as champion due to his loyalty to his allies. This narrative was reinforced by attacks that left Uso heading into the defense with injured ribs, courtesy of Bron Breakker, Bronson Reed, and a Springboard Moonsault through a table by Logan Paul at Money in the Bank. GUNTHER relentlessly targeted this injury throughout their 22-minute encounter, neutralizing Uso’s offense.
Addressing the fan debate over the quick title change, Hardy expressed his approval of the storyline. “Well, I’m glad he got his title reign. I’m glad they let him go out there… and they elevated him,” Hardy stated. “The fact that he had that run and he lost it back to GUNTHER. Even in that fashion, I like all that. I’m fine with all that, and it’s going to be interesting to see what’s next with Jey.”
Hardy emphasized the significance of the accomplishment itself. “No, he’s not buried. He’s not buried at all. If you’ve been awarded the world title, you are definitely not buried,” he affirmed, adding, “I feel like if it is done the right way… it could be huge for GUNTHER. I think he could grow his legend and his legacy.”
According to a June 13 report from Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, the title change was a strategic decision by Paul Levesque. The plan is reportedly to position GUNTHER for a high-profile retirement match against Bill Goldberg at Saturday Night’s Main Event on July 12, which coincides with AEW’s All In Texas and is slated for broadcast on NBC. Goldberg is expected to return on the June 16 episode of RAW to initiate the angle.
While that main event picture develops, WWE reportedly has significant plans for Jey Uso. Echoing Hardy’s speculation about a potential tag team run, reports from Cory Hays of Viper Reports and Bodyslam.net indicate that a reunion with his brother, Jimmy Uso, is being planned, signaling a new direction for the former champion.
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