John Cena’s Final Match: Beyond Gunther, A WWE Succession Crisis Looms
The wrestling world is bracing for a farewell. John Cena’s impending retirement, seemingly set to culminate at Saturday Night’s Main Event, isn’t just the end of an era – it’s a stark reminder of WWE’s ongoing struggle to seamlessly transition between generational stars. While Gunther is the current frontrunner to be the one to send Cena into retirement, the debate sparked by Cena’s own father reveals a deeper anxiety: is WWE truly equipped to build new legends, or are they simply relying on established names to provide a final ‘rub’?
The “Rub” and the Torch: A Family Affair
John Cena Sr.’s outspoken criticism of a potential Gunther victory isn’t simply a father’s protective instinct. He articulates a concern shared by many fans: Gunther doesn’t *need* to retire Cena. The Intercontinental Champion is already a formidable force, having defeated Goldberg earlier this year. A win over Cena, while prestigious, feels less like a passing of the torch and more like a final boost to a star already on the ascent. As Cena Sr. pointedly stated, the ideal scenario isn’t about elevating someone; it’s about a meaningful transfer of legacy.
This highlights a critical tension within WWE’s booking strategy. The concept of the “rub” – where a veteran star elevates a younger talent through a victory – is a time-honored tradition. However, Cena Sr. argues that simply handing a win to someone doesn’t guarantee long-term success. He champions the idea of a genuine torch-passing moment, citing Cena’s own interactions with Cody Rhodes as a prime example. The embrace, the tearful acknowledgment – these moments resonate with fans and create lasting narratives.
Dominik Mysterio and the Problem with Quick Fixes
Cena Sr. also points to Cena’s recent loss to Dominik Mysterio at Survivor Series: WarGames as a questionable decision. While a loss to Mysterio undeniably elevated the younger star, it also diminished Cena’s final run. The question remains: does WWE prioritize short-term gains over the long-term impact on its biggest names? This pattern suggests a reliance on quick fixes rather than sustained character development and organic storytelling.
The desire for a more fitting opponent, like Kurt Angle, speaks volumes. Angle represents a peer, a legend who could provide a truly symbolic and emotionally resonant final match. The fact that Angle’s own retirement bout was against Baron Corbin – a Superstar who has since been released – further underscores WWE’s sometimes questionable booking choices. It’s a missed opportunity to create a moment that would have truly honored both men and captivated the audience.
The LA Knight Factor and the Future of WWE Storytelling
With Cena facing LA Knight in the finals of the “Last Time Is Now” tournament, the stakes are even higher. Knight’s meteoric rise has been fueled by organic fan support, making him a compelling contender. However, a victory over Cena could feel similarly manufactured if it doesn’t stem from a carefully crafted narrative. The key isn’t simply *who* wins, but *how* the victory is presented and what it signifies for the future of WWE.
Beyond the Match: A Generational Shift
The broader implication of Cena’s retirement extends beyond the immediate outcome of his final match. It forces WWE to confront a fundamental question: how will they replace a star who transcended professional wrestling and became a global icon? The answer isn’t simply finding the next John Cena; it’s about fostering an environment where multiple stars can thrive and connect with audiences on a personal level.
This requires a shift in storytelling. WWE needs to move beyond relying on established names to carry the weight of the promotion and invest in developing compelling characters with authentic motivations. The success of stars like MJF in AEW demonstrates the power of nuanced storytelling and allowing performers to embrace their individuality. WWE must learn from this and prioritize long-term character development over short-term gains.
The Hall of Fame and a Legacy Secured
While the in-ring farewell is approaching, Cena’s legacy is already cemented. His impending induction into the WWE Hall of Fame is a testament to his impact on the industry. However, the true measure of his success won’t be the accolades he receives, but the inspiration he provides to future generations of wrestlers. Will WWE learn from his career and create an environment where new stars can shine?
The coming weeks will be pivotal. The outcome of Cena’s final match, and the narrative surrounding it, will send a clear message about WWE’s vision for the future. It’s a chance to not just say goodbye to a legend, but to lay the foundation for a new era of professional wrestling. What are your predictions for Cena’s final opponent and the future of WWE storytelling? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
