Jeff Hardy: The Next HBK

There's no doubt that Jeff Hardy is a fan favorite in the WWE, but he isn't being utilized like the fans want him to be. If the WWE Championship were to put on the most popular wrestler or entertainer, then Jeff might have the strap, but it's not all about popularity.

Jeff has had a roller coaster career, from being one-half of arguably the most popular tag team of all time, to being suspended for drugs, to having main event status. But what is holding back the WWE from putting Jeff at the top? The fans. Now, hear me out.

Jeff gets the biggest ovation almost every time we see him on TV, and that is why the WWE is waiting so long to give him the title.  Some say that due to his past drug use and rebellious attitude Jeff may never be the champ, but the WWE staff are no slouches.

They realize that Jeff is the next HBK and they are trying to make his journey to the top as emotion filled as possible. Three times in 2008 Jeff has had shots at the title, and each time he was cleanly beaten by his opponents.

This is similar to how Shawn Michaels reached his iconic status.  For a couple of years before Shawn beat Bret Hart in their iconic iron man match he was chasing the title and losing each time he fought for it, just like Jeff.

It's only a matter of time before WWE officials can no longer deny the appeal Jeff would have as the face of the company.  For years he has represented the "Be Yourself" attitude which is why he is so loved by his fans.  Just wait and see: 2009 is the year of Jeff Hardy.