Jeff Hardy’s real-life problems were brought on camera as part of an angle for last night’s Smackdown as the show kicked off with an intoxicated Hardy getting arrested, losing his spot in the Intercontinental title tournament semi final match.
Hardy’s problems with driving while intoxicated are well-known and the WWE Superstar got arrested multiple times, including last year, for his alcohol-related issues. His struggle to overcome his problems were highlighted in a multi-part video series that aired on Smackdown leading up to his return and Hardy, to his credit, has not shied away from his problems.
While at the beginning of the show Hardy was found passed out and led away by police under arrest, the former WWE champion made it back in time for the main event, distracting Sheamus in his semi final match against Daniel Bryan. After the match, Hardy attacked Sheamus but the Celtic Warrior managed to escape.
It was an interesting twist and one that could lead to different scenarios, including one where Hardy was maybe set up by Sheamus and AJ Styles who ultimately benefited from both Jeff and Elias’ removal from the tournament. Elias had to wrestle AJ Styles in the other semi final but Styles took the bye and advanced to the final without facing an opponent.
