Joe Hendry’s performance on WWE NXT was more than just a wrestling match; it was a tribute to one of the sport’s greats, Eddie Guerrero
By incorporating Guerrero’s iconic moves and delivering a high-caliber performance, Hendry demonstrated his respect for the legends who came before him while also proving his own prowess in the ring.
This episode of WWE NXT not only celebrated Hendry’s debut but also highlighted his potential as a rising star in the world of professional wrestling.
Eddie Guerrero’s legacy extends far beyond his time in the ring. His charisma, technical prowess, and compelling storytelling made him a standout performer, while his personal struggles and triumphs endeared him to fans around the world.
Eddie’s influence can be seen in the continued admiration of his work and the respect shown by those who knew him.
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Table of Contents
Joe Hendry’s Tribute to Eddie Guerrero on WWE NXT
In a remarkable display of wrestling skill and homage, Joe Hendry made his mark on WWE NXT this week by honoring the legendary Eddie Guerrero.1
Known for his charismatic style and innovative moves, Guerrero’s influence was clearly felt in Hendry’s match against Joe Coffey.
This episode not only marked Hendry’s debut singles match in WWE NXT but also showcased his ability to blend classic wrestling tributes with modern-day action.
A High-Energy Start
The match began with high intensity as Joe Hendry wasted no time in taking the fight to his opponents. Before the bell even rang, Hendry leaped out of the ring, targeting Mark Coffey and Wolfgang, who were stationed at ringside.
This aggressive start set the tone for the match, displaying Hendry’s readiness to bring a dynamic and unpredictable style to WWE NXT.
18 years ago today we lost a legend Latino heat Eddie Guerrero pic.twitter.com/wUq3rkKeP2
— Eddie Guerrero the Legend (@EddieGuerrerot1) November 13, 2023
The Initial Exchange
As the bell rang, Hendry and Coffey immediately engaged in a heated exchange. Coffey attempted an early attack, but Hendry’s quick reflexes allowed him to counter with a sharp uppercut.
Hendry’s offensive included a powerful high knee, forcing Coffey to retreat. Despite a daring crossbody attempt from Coffey off the top rope, Hendry managed to evade the move, demonstrating his ring awareness and agility.
A pivotal moment in the match came when Hendry channeled Eddie Guerrero’s legendary tactics. Guerrero was famous for his clever and sometimes mischievous tricks, and Hendry paid tribute to this by incorporating a classic Guerrero maneuver.
During a chaotic moment outside the ring, Hendry cleverly tossed a chair to Coffey and then took a dramatic bump on the announce table, reminiscent of Guerrero’s iconic “lie, cheat, and steal” approach.
This move not only delighted the audience but also showcased Hendry’s respect for wrestling history.
The Battle Outside the Ring
The action wasn’t limited to the confines of the ring. Hendry and Coffey engaged in a fierce brawl at ringside, with Hendry taking on the rest of the Gallus faction.
This outside-the-ring action highlighted Hendry’s resilience and willingness to battle against multiple opponents simultaneously.
The intensity of the skirmish underscored the high stakes of the match and kept the audience on the edge of their seats.
Eddie Guerrero: Referee Intervention and Ejection
The presence of Mark Coffey and Wolfgang at ringside added a layer of complexity to the match.2
Their interference prompted the referee to take decisive action, resulting in their ejection from ringside.
This move was crucial in leveling the playing field, allowing Hendry and Coffey to focus solely on their one-on-one confrontation without additional distractions.
The Climactic Finish
Back in the ring, Hendry seized the opportunity to assert his dominance. He executed a series of powerful maneuvers, including a backdrop and an overhead throw.
These moves demonstrated Hendry’s strength and technical prowess. With Coffey reeling from the onslaught, Hendry prepared to finish the match with his signature move.
Hendry’s Winning Moment
The climax of the match saw Hendry deliver his finisher with precision. The successful execution of this move secured his victory via pinfall, marking a significant achievement in his WWE NXT career.
Hendry’s triumph was not only a testament to his skill but also a celebration of his ability to honor wrestling legends while establishing his own legacy.
Joe Hendry’s first singles match in WWE NXT was a memorable one, filled with high-energy moments and respectful nods to wrestling history.
His tribute to Eddie Guerrero added a layer of depth to the match, highlighting Hendry’s understanding and appreciation of the sport’s rich tradition.
This debut performance sets a promising precedent for Hendry’s future in WWE, showcasing his potential to blend entertainment with athleticism in captivating ways.
Eddie Guerrero: Wrestling Career
Early Years (1986-1995)
Eddie Guerrero began his professional wrestling career in the early 1980s under the ring names Mascara Magica and Black Tiger.3
These early years saw him honing his craft in Mexico, where he wrestled for companies like CMLL (Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre) and AAA (Asistencia Asesoría y Administración).
His initial persona as Black Tiger showcased his ability to connect with the audience, but it was his eventual unmasking and transition to wrestling under the Guerrero family name that would define his legacy.
During this period, Guerrero’s skills earned him accolades and opportunities with international promotions. His tenure with NJPW (New Japan Pro-Wrestling) introduced him to a broader audience and established him as a formidable competitor.
The same can be said for his time in ECW (Extreme Championship Wrestling), where he demonstrated his versatility and adaptability. Guerrero’s performances in these promotions helped build a reputation that would pave the way for his entry into larger wrestling organizations like WCW and WWE.
Despite the success and championships won in Mexico and Japan, Guerrero’s stint with NJPW and ROH (Ring of Honor) after his release from WWF (World Wrestling Federation) proved that his wrestling prowess transcended borders, further cementing his status as a global wrestling icon.
WCW (1995-2000)
Eddie Guerrero’s arrival in WCW (World Championship Wrestling) in 1995 marked a significant chapter in his career.
His initial success came with winning the WCW United States Championship in 1996 by defeating DDP (Diamond Dallas Page) at Starrcade. Guerrero’s ability to deliver in the ring and his charismatic personality made him a standout performer.
However, his reign as United States Champion was short-lived, as he lost the title to Dean Malenko in 1997.
Undeterred, Guerrero shifted his focus to the Cruiserweight Championship, a title he first captured by defeating Chris Jericho at Fall Brawl. This victory established Guerrero as a premier cruiserweight competitor in WCW.
WWF (2000-2001)
Guerrero’s WWF debut in 2000 was a pivotal moment for both him and the company. He arrived alongside Chris Benoit, Dean Malenko, and Perry Saturn as part of The Radicalz, a group that quickly made an impact.
Guerrero’s storyline involving a romantic angle with Chyna showcased his versatility and ability to adapt to different roles within the promotion.
WWE (2002-2005)
Rise and Championships
Eddie Guerrero’s return to WWE in 2002 saw him quickly reestablish himself as a top performer. His feud with Rob Van Dam (RVD) was one of his early highlights, culminating in Guerrero winning the Intercontinental Championship. The rivalry was intense, and Guerrero’s performances in their matches kept fans engaged.
Upon being drafted to SmackDown, Guerrero began a notable rivalry with Edge. While he did not win the feud, it set the stage for Guerrero’s next major success.
Guerrero teamed up with his nephew Chavo Guerrero to form Los Guerreros, a tag team that became immensely popular due to their entertaining vignettes and in-ring chemistry. Los Guerreros won the WWE Tag Team Championships twice, defeating teams such as Edge and Rey Mysterio, and The World’s Greatest Tag Team.
Final Feuds
Following his WWE Championship win, Guerrero’s feuds continued to captivate audiences. His rivalry with JBL (John Bradshaw Layfield) was one of the most intense of his career.
Guerrero lost the title to JBL at The Great American Bash, marking a significant shift in his storyline focus.
Guerrero’s feud with Kurt Angle added another layer to his WWE career. Their matches were highly competitive, and while Angle defeated Guerrero at SummerSlam, Guerrero’s performance solidified his reputation as a top-tier wrestler.
At Survivor Series, Guerrero’s team, Team Guerrero, emerged victorious against Team Angle, continuing his trend of engaging, high-stakes matches.
Eddie Guerrero: Tragic Death
Early Morning Tragedy
On November 13, 2005, the world of professional wrestling was struck by a profound tragedy.
Eddie Guerrero, one of the most beloved and talented wrestlers of his generation, was found unconscious in his hotel room by his nephew, Chavo Guerrero.
Chavo, who had been traveling with Eddie, immediately attempted to perform CPR in a desperate bid to save him. Despite his efforts, Eddie was pronounced dead at the scene by the paramedics who arrived shortly after.
Cause of Death
The circumstances surrounding Eddie Guerrero’s death were initially shrouded in shock and confusion. An autopsy conducted later revealed that the cause of death was heart failure, which had been triggered by a blocked artery.
The blockage was attributed to underlying cardiovascular issues that Eddie had struggled with for years, although he had largely kept these health concerns private.
WWE Hall of Fame Induction
- In recognition of Eddie Guerrero’s outstanding career and his significant influence on professional wrestling, he was posthumously inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2006.
- The induction ceremony was a poignant moment for the wrestling community, as it celebrated Eddie’s legacy and his role in shaping the industry.
- The ceremony was particularly meaningful as it was led by Chavo Guerrero, Eddie’s nephew, who took on the responsibility of honoring his uncle’s memory in front of a packed audience.
- The induction was a testament to Eddie’s exceptional talent and the profound impact he had on those around him.
- The 10-year anniversary of Eddie Guerrero’s death was marked with a special edition of Smackdown!, which aired on what would have been Eddie’s birthday. This episode was not only a tribute to Eddie’s life and career but also a celebration of the enduring legacy he left behind.
- The anniversary special featured a series of segments and matches dedicated to Eddie Guerrero, including a look back at some of his most memorable moments in WWE. The show highlighted how Eddie’s influence continued to resonate with fans and wrestlers alike, even a decade after his passing.
- The decision to air the tribute on Eddie’s birthday added a personal touch to the commemoration, underscoring the continued affection and respect held for him by the wrestling community. The special was a moving reminder of the joy and inspiration Eddie had brought to so many during his life and career.
Also Read: Eddie Guerrero (WWE Legend): Who Was He? Bio, Career, Personal Life, Obituary and More
