Joe Hendry on Meeting Paul Heyman at Royal Rumble 2025 – TNA Wrestling World Champion Joe Hendry had a memorable experience at the 2025 WWE Royal Rumble, where he not only entered the match at number 15 but also shared a brief moment in the ring with Roman Reigns before being eliminated. However, one of the standout moments for Hendry took place backstage when he had the opportunity to speak with Paul Heyman, Reigns’ “Wise Man.”
During an interview with Denise Salcedo, Hendry reflected on his conversations with several WWE stars, including Cody Rhodes and CM Punk. He noted that speaking with Punk provided him with valuable advice, while reconnecting with Rhodes—who played a role in helping him land a job with Ring of Honor—was a meaningful experience.
Hendry was particularly excited about meeting Heyman, admitting that he wasn’t sure if the legendary manager was familiar with him.
“I enjoyed being able to have a conversation with Cody Rhodes, someone who I’ve wrestled before, someone who was instrumental in helping me getting a job with Ring of Honor. I enjoyed chatting with CM Punk. He had great advice for me. I enjoyed meeting Paul Heyman. I didn’t want to assume that Paul Heyman knew who I was, but he did know who I was, and we had a really good conversation. So that was a very cool moment for me. He’s obviously a legend in the business, so to be able to have a conversation with him is great.
“I enjoyed working with Shane Helms; we’ve gotten on really well. There were so many friendly faces,” he continued. “I really enjoyed talking with everyone backstage. The way that WWE and TNA have been working with each other. It’s just been with open arms on both sides. I have been made to feel so welcome. I know that everybody has, on both sides. So it’s just been a phenomenal partnership.”
Joe Hendry on Meeting Paul Heyman at Royal Rumble 2025
