Joe Hendry Admits He Had To Leave TNA To “Grow” Before Signing With WWE

Joe Hendry is currently riding high as the new NXT Champion, having won the title in a ladder match on the February 3rd episode of NXT on The CW. However, his journey to this point involved some calculated risks and missed opportunities. Speaking on Busted Open After Dark, Hendry reflected on his time in TNA and his failed attempt to secure a match with John Cena during the legend’s retirement tour.

Hendry on Cena: “I Didn’t Wanna Make It About Me”

“I tried. I tried (to make the match with John Cena happen),” Hendry admitted. He explained the delicate balance of trying to manifest the match without being disrespectful or “going into business for himself.” Hendry cited his billboard stunt in Glasgow as a fun attempt, but ultimately, he respected the boundaries. “Maybe I needed to not get the John Cena match to get what’s gonna come next,” he mused, suggesting the snub motivated him to improve even further.

Regarding his exit from TNA, Hendry was clear that he felt he had hit a ceiling. “I gave everything to that company that I absolutely had… I felt like I had achieved the goal at TNA and I felt like in order for me to grow, it was time.” Now in WWE, Hendry believes he made the move at the perfect moment to capitalize on the skills he acquired, validating his decision to leave his former home behind.

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