Former TNA World Champion Joe Hendry has elaborated on his decision to sign with WWE following multiple appearances on NXT and the main roster.
In one of the least surprising pieces of contract news in 2025, it was reported in November that Hendry had signed with WWE as his TNA deal had come to an end. Shortly afterwards, the news was made official as Hendry had his own page added to the WWE website. Since singing, the Scottish wrestler has been a part of the NXT brand, and recently competed in the Iron Survivor Challenge match at NXT Deadline, which was won by Je’Von Evans.
While appearing on No-Contest Wrestling with TJ Henderson and O’Shea Jackson Jr, Hendry stated that the reason he chose to join the company was that he wanted to increase his skills further, noting that WWE and the Performance Center was the place where he could perform as his absolute best:
“Right now, I’m obsessed with getting better at wrestling and trying to be the absolute best professional wrestler that I can be. That is, for me, the primary reason I chose to come to NXT; to evolve as a wrestler. I really feel I can take this all the way, and the Performance Center has the tools for me to do that. I am obsessed with getting better.
“The level that this takes to be a star in WWE, it’s the premier wrestling organization in the world. To be able to do this at this level, you have to give this absolutely everything. One thing I love about the Performance Center is it keeps me on my toes every single day. I’m surrounded by world-class athletes and talents. I’m not willing to show up and be embarrassed. I have to show up and compete with these world-class athletes. That’s what makes the experience of NXT so good for me. The learning I get there. I’m working closely with Terry Taylor right now to become the best professional wrestler I can be.”
Joe Hendry Had Multiple Viral Moments Before Choosing To Sign With WWE
As soon as Hendry made his shock appearance on NXT to a thunderous ovation back in May 2024, fans knew that it was only a matter of time before the former TNA World Champion was going to be an official part of the company, following in the footsteps of Jordynne Grace.
Along with an appearance in the 2025 Men’s Royal Rumble, where Hendry was eliminated by Roman Reigns, the recent NXT signee also faced Randy Orton at WrestleMania 41, where he was revealed to be Orton’s surprise opponent.
H/t to Fightful for the use of transcription.
Featured image: WWE
