Throughout his career, Jeff Hardy’s real-life struggles with substance abuse have been integrated into various storylines. On the Insight podcast, Hardy reflected on these instances, sharing mixed feelings about their portrayal in his professional career.
“In a way, I think it helped me, but also, looking back at it now, I go, Oh my God, was that the right thing to do? “
Hardy’s substance issues have been referenced multiple times in WWE storylines, including his 2009 feud with CM Punk, which contrasted Punk’s straightedge lifestyle with Hardy’s struggles. After Hardy’s return to WWE, his alcohol issues were revisited during a feud with Sheamus in 2020.
One of the most infamous instances of Hardy’s challenges was at the 2011 TNA Victory Road pay-per-view, where he appeared in no condition to compete. On the podcast, Hardy recalled what he could from the event.
“I remember going out there, and I remember just Sting roughing me up and throwing me to the mat… I’ve just had a lot of dark, dark times from the alcoholism and the drug addiction stuff. It feels good to be on the other side of that.”
Hardy has since returned to TNA Wrestling, where he is now sober and thriving as one-half of the reigning TNA World Tag Team Champions. Fans can stay tuned to SEScoops for updates as Hardy continues to rebuild his legacy, focusing on a life free from substance abuse.