Mustafa Ali may be dealing with a painful injury setback, but Matt Hardy believes the TNA International Champion could have a very bright future waiting for him in the company’s main event scene.

Ali reportedly suffered broken ribs and a punctured lung during his match against Jason Hotch at TNA Lockdown on Sunday. The injuries have forced Ali to withdraw from some upcoming appearances, although there has been no indication that TNA plans to strip him of the International Championship.

Despite the unfortunate timing of the injury, Ali continues to receive plenty of praise for the work he has been producing in TNA.

Speaking on the latest edition of The Extreme Life of Matt Hardy, co-host Jon Alba suggested that Ali has reached a stage in his career where he could comfortably be placed into a TNA main event programme.

“He’s put in his 15 years. He’s ready to main event now.”

Hardy then offered an interesting tease about what could potentially be ahead for Ali, suggesting fans of his current work may enjoy where the story eventually leads.

“I think with what you said, you’re going to be happy with how all this plays out. But yes, I mean, he’s great. And still, like I told him, keep doing what you’re doing. I love the work he’s doing as a heel, but he’s destined to end up being a big babyface before it’s all said and done, too.”

Hardy also had particularly high praise for the character work Ali has been producing.

“His character work is off the charts. He’s really locked in.”

Ali regained the TNA International Championship from Hotch at Lockdown, beginning his second reign with the title.

Hotch had previously defeated Ali for the championship on the July 30 episode of TNA Impact in Philadelphia. Ali originally captured the title at Rebellion in April after defeating Trey Miguel.

For now, Ali’s immediate priority will be recovering from his injuries. However, Hardy’s comments certainly suggest there could be bigger plans waiting for the 40-year-old when he is healthy enough to return.

Would you like to see Mustafa Ali move into the TNA World Championship picture when he returns? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.