Elias Believes His WWE Feud With Jeff Hardy Can Be A "Stepping Stone" To The Main Event Picture

At Hell In A Cell, the young rivalry between Elias and Jeff Hardy will enter its next stage as the two Superstars will go one on one at the pay-per-view.

The Drifter and The Charismatic Enigma have been feuding since Elias returned last week and smashed Hardy across the back with a guitar. WWE's resident rock star then said he attacked Jeff because the former Intercontinental Champion hit him with a car back on the May 29 episode of SmackDown. There is no evidence to suggest Hardy was the culprit, however.

Elias recently sat down for an interview with Justin Barrasso of Sports Illustrated to talk about the feud. The WWE Superstar admitted he is hoping the rivalry with the three-time world champion can be a "stepping stone" to the main event picture on Monday Night Raw.

"This story is going to be fun," Elias said. "I grew up a huge wrestling fan, and I love when stories make sense and fans can connect the dots in their own mind as to why things are happening, along with some mystery and reveal.

"I know exactly what is ahead of me, and I'm ready for it. I'm willing to put all my effort into my story. I'm ready for Jeff Hardy, and I'll be ready for big stories with guys like Drew McIntyre and AJ Styles. Jeff can be a stepping stone right to that main event picture."