Joe Hendry Addresses Reaction to Ryan Garcia’s Controversial WWE RAW Segment

Joe Hendry has responded to the reaction surrounding the July 27 edition of WWE RAW, where a heavily criticized segment involving Ryan Garcia became one of the most talked‑about moments of the night.

The segment featured Hendry and Danhausen in an intentionally exaggerated presentation that included the Minihausens, dancers and Garcia, who closed the scene by smashing a guitar over Hendry’s back before celebrating with Dominik Mysterio and J.D. McDonagh.

Speaking on Cheap Heat, Hendry acknowledged the discussion around the segment and said everyone involved approached the performance with the intent of delivering strong entertainment, even when certain creative ideas divide the audience. He emphasized that the group’s commitment to their work remains consistent regardless of how individual segments are received.

“My thoughts were this — and I’ll just be completely upfront and honest about this. We are all extremely passionate about what we do,” Hendry said, noting that he relocated to Orlando after signing with WWE to fully immerse himself in NXT. He explained that the move allowed him to attend classes, work local shows and invest in learning as much as possible.

Hendry added that his approach has always centered on giving fans value, recalling his time on the independent scene producing comedy‑driven music videos and hoping the humor would resonate with audiences.

“You want it to land and it’s the best feeling in the world when you give the audience that moment, that laugh… We give absolutely everything that we’ve got. I give my absolute best efforts and we’re gonna try a lot of things, and some things are gonna land and some things won’t but we will always give our best efforts.”

Hendry Says Effort Never Changes, Even When Segments Spark Debate

Hendry’s comments reflect a performer who understands that experimentation is part of the process, especially in segments designed to push boundaries or lean into comedy. While the RAW segment drew significant criticism — largely due to Garcia’s involvement — Hendry made clear that the intent behind it was rooted in effort, collaboration and a desire to entertain.

His remarks also highlight the broader reality of WWE programming: not every creative swing will land the same way for every viewer, but the performers involved remain committed to delivering their best work each time they step onto the stage.

Hendry Credits Fans for His Momentum and Reflects on a Missed RAW Appearance

Hendry also credited WWE fans for helping elevate his career, saying their support directly contributed to opportunities such as the Royal Rumble and WrestleMania.

“I feel the fans have put me in this position. We talked about WrestleMania; that was because of the fan reaction, and WrestleMania probably happened because of the reaction that I got at the Royal Rumble… So, I want to give them my absolute best.”

Elsewhere in the interview, Hendry revealed he nearly appeared on RAW in Glasgow, Scotland, while he was still TNA World Champion in 2025. He said the appearance ultimately fell through, and at the time, he believed missing the opportunity was a major setback.

“I remember there was a time where it looked like I was going to be on RAW in Glasgow, Scotland… We just couldn’t get it done for that show, and I remember it feeling painful… thinking it was the worst thing ever.”

Looking back, Hendry believes the missed appearance may have ultimately worked in his favor.

“But then four weeks later, I was on WrestleMania. Now, would I have been on WrestleMania if I’d done that? Maybe not. Because it wouldn’t have been the same reaction.”