Rivalry Revisited: 3 Reasons Why Jeff Hardy vs. CM Punk Worked
By Josh Raibick
Opposites Attract
From a story standpoint both of these superstars could not be any more different. One lived a straight edge lifestyle, while the other had previously violated the Wellness Policy. Punk was a great long-winded talker, while Hardy was better in short bursts on the microphone.
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The narrative helped build the story, as you would not believe that either superstar would have a friendship with the other just based on lifestyle choices. Then you would hear both superstars talk, and while Punk did have the squeaky clean image you would want from a role model, arrogance oozed from his voice. On the other side, while Hardy seemed like the “screw up”, his tone and actions were of someone that you would want to give a second chance and believe in.
With all the pieces in place for a great story, all both superstars had to do was deliver in the ring. As much as Hardy and Punk were opposites outside of the ring, they were just as much opposites inside the ring.
Hardy will likely go down as the greatest high flying act in the history of mainstream pro wrestling. At the same time, Punk complimented Hardy’s high flying by bringing a well-rounded technical style to the ring. In most cases different styles are what make for better matches because it fills both superstars’ weaknesses.
Before Dolph Ziggler arrived on the scene, I always considered Hardy to be the best seller of moves in WWE. Add the four or five breath taking spots Hardy delivers on a regular basis with Punk’s ability to structure a match, and you have a five star recipe.