That’s my view of front 44s and rear 8.8s... the time and effort and money aren’t worth the gains.
It could be argued that it’s a meaningful “step” in the process and evolution of your rig before 1tons... learning its limitations before going full tons.
For me it’s what ever is available rear end wise- that’s not a 35. If it’s a 35 swap it, I like 9”, but 8.8 or 44... and a built hp 30 still is only a good combo for MAX if 37s. That’s why, if it ain’t your forever axle (1tons), I think the 8.25 is good for now in most cases up to 35s. Yea it’s not the best, but it can handle about as much as the front can so you have balance.. and then you aren’t building and swapping axles more then once. Aftermarket would be the one reason I’d swap an 8.8... but I’m not one that would run 37s on an 8.8, so the difference in strength is negligible IMO.
As was said, 33s is probably the best for the 8.25/hp30 combo...
For 35s imo the stock 8.25 and Hp 30 (non disco) can be done with a smart skinny pedal, add choice of lockers and gears, truss them... upgrade axle shafts maybe... and build tons on the side until your rig is ready (roll cage, steering, big ol tires etc etc)