The decision to have TNA World Champion Joe Hendry answer Randy Orton’s open challenge at WrestleMania 41, only to lose the match, sparked debate among wrestling fans. On his “Grilling JR” podcast, Jim Ross offered his perspective on the booking choice.
“I’m nonplussed, to be honest with you. I don’t know if it needed to happen,” Ross stated candidly. Despite questioning the necessity of the loss for the TNA champion on WWE’s biggest stage, JR spoke highly of Hendry himself: “Joe Hendry is a top hand in my view. It’s just funny how Joe got a unique following, and I’m a big fan of his work, his in-ring work, and his work as a human being, a classy guy.”
Ultimately, Ross viewed the high-profile appearance positively for Hendry and TNA, seeing it as beneficial exposure. “It’s good for him. They’re building their brand, and Joe Hendry is a part of that brand building, so, all good. All good, in my view.”
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