Here's Why Jeff Hardy Hasn't Been Wrestling on SmackDown Live

Two weeks ago, Daniel Bryan beat Jeff Hardy on SmackDown Live. Since then, Hardy hasn’t wrestled another television match. He also has not defended the United States Championship since Backlash. The WWE Universe knows he’s fighting through some nagging injuries, but when is the Charismatic Enigma returning to SmackDown Live?

According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Jeff Hardy has been suffering from a pinched nerve that causing numbness in his fingers. Obviously, that’s a genuine concern and it makes sense why he’s been taking it easy the past few weeks. It’s unclear if Hardy is planning to take more time off, but the WWE Universe should have the answer soon.

After SmackDown went off the air, the US Champion wrestled alongside Daniel Bryan to face The Miz and Big Cass in a dark match. It seems WWE officials are protecting him in the ring for the time being, but a decision has to be made soon. As of this writing, there isn’t a US Title defense booked for Money in the Bank. That’s a very telling statement.

There are plenty of guys who could carry the US Title on SmackDown. If Hardy’s reign must end due to his injury, it’s likely WWE officials will take the championship off him sooner rather than later. If that happens, the fans will know his injury is more serious.

The WWE Universe had been waiting for The Hardy Boyz to return:

Matt & Jeff Hardy make a shocking return to WWE: WrestleMania 33 (WWE Network Exclusive)

WWE officials still view Jeff Hardy as a major star for the company. That’s why he was given the US Title after WrestleMania 34 and moved to SmackDown Live. Over time, he could receive a much bigger push. However, Jeff has to stay healthy and that has been a huge problem for him since making his return to WWE last year.

Do you feel Jeff Hardy should be stripped of the United States Title?