Jeff Hardy returns to wrestling for the first time in a year

For the first time in almost a year, Jeff Hardy is back in the ring.

The wrestling icon has surprised fans by making his return to AEW following a lengthy spell out of action.

Hardy's issues away from the wrestling ring have been well documented, so it's good to see him back doing the thing he loves most.

12 months ago, the WWE legend was arrested and charged with DUI.

With part of his sentence requiring Hardy to undertake rehabilitation programs, fans were concerned for his wellbeing.

And having just gone under the knife to get surgery on his eye, it seemed his comeback was further away than first anticipated..

However, earlier this week, Matt Hardy stated that he and Isiah Kassidy would be pursuing the AEW World Tag Team Titles together.

He also stated that his brother, Jeff Hardy, could be back in the ring in "six to eight weeks".

Turns out it was far sooner than that.

With the match well underway, spectators were stunned when Hardy's iconic music started blasting over the speakers.

His surprise appearance was met with cheers from the crowd as Hardy made his way towards the ring carrying a custom-painted steel chair – which he immediately put to good use, of course.

Incredibly, Hardy wasted no time in dusting off the cobwebs.

First off, he sent Big Bill flying over the ropes before turning his attention to Lee Moriarty.

Not only did he hit Moriarty with a Twist of Fate, but he then landed the Swanton Bomb on him just for good measure too.

Iconic.

With all of their opponents on the canvas, Hardy then embraced his brother Matt, giving him a big hug as the arena erupted behind them.

It was an emotional moment for the wrestling legend who has been tackling his fair share of issues over the past few years.

Featured Image Credit: Twitter/AEW

Topics: WWE, Wrestling

Max Sherry

Max Sherry is a journalist for SPORTbible Australia. After migrating Down Under from London as a teenager, he instantly fell in love with Aussie sport and its culture. From NRL to AFL, cricket to rugby — you name it, Max watches it (with a beer in hand, of course). During his time at Fox Sports, he worked in the football department covering the Premier League, A-League, Socceroos and Matildas. Born a stone's throw away from West Ham's training ground, Max is obviously a die-hard Liverpool fan.

@maxysherry