Matt Hardy, known as one of the original architects of the Tables, Ladders, and Chairs (TLC) match, attended the six-team TLC match at WWE SummerSlam 2025 and praised the event as nearly flawless. Hardy’s appreciation for the SummerSlam Six-Team TLC Match highlights the combination of intense physicality and storytelling that made the encounter memorable.
Bridging Generations with Iconic Wrestling Figures
During the bout, Hardy appeared alongside his brother Jeff Hardy and longtime rivals The Dudley Boyz, linking the Attitude Era’s innovators with today’s tag team competitors. Their visible support added a historic dimension to the match, underscoring the legacy and evolution of TLC matches in WWE.
Insight from Matt Hardy on the Match’s Performance and Impact
On his podcast, The Extreme Life of Matt Hardy, he noted the additional pressure the presence of these original performers might have placed on the wrestlers, while also motivating them to elevate their performances.
“I was really proud of everybody… They busted their ass. They gave some great callbacks, then segued into original spots which were really cool. The work and the physicality is there. All those teams are super talented, and they’re continuing to grow their connection to the audience.”
—Matt Hardy, WWE Hall of Famer
Hardy also praised the match’s structure, applauding the pacing and how each team was showcased effectively throughout, calling it
“a spectacle from beginning to end.”
“Everybody worked so hard, and I thought they did a really good job of featuring everyone in a special way… The TLC match, I would maybe go four and three-quarters [stars].”
—Matt Hardy, WWE Hall of Famer
Wyatt Sicks Retain Championships in Highly Acclaimed Battle
The Wyatt Sicks successfully defended the SmackDown Tag Team Championships in this standout contest, which became one of the most discussed matches of SummerSlam weekend. Receiving acclaim from an originator like Matt Hardy signals a strong endorsement of the performers’ efforts and the overall quality of the match.
Legacy and Future of TLC Matches
Hardy’s high rating and thoughtful commentary reinforce the relevance and excitement TLC matches continue to bring to WWE programming. This match at SummerSlam 2025 demonstrates how the discipline has evolved, blending homage to the past with innovative action that keeps audiences engaged.
