The anticipation for WrestleMania 40 is reaching a fever pitch, and while the card boasts a historic lineup, the conspicuous absence of John Cena raises questions about his role in the grand event.
As the card shapes up with marquee matches like Roman Reigns versus Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins taking on Drew McIntyre, the question of where Cena fits in becomes even more intriguing.
Reflecting on Cena’s last appearance at WrestleMania, where he suffered a predictable loss to Austin Theory in a match that barely surpassed the 11-minute mark, it becomes evident that finding a suitable spot for the legendary figure has its challenges.
Despite Cena expressing his optimism about being involved in a match at WrestleMania 40, it raises the question of whether he has been overexposed as a part-timer in recent times.
Cena’s recent return to challenge Roman Reigns and subsequent losses to Theory and Solo Sikoa at Crown Jewel has led to speculation about the veteran’s optimal role in the upcoming WrestleMania extravaganza.
With The Rock already poised for a substantial role, WWE already has a nostalgia-inducing legend presence, fulfilling a unique spot in a way few others can.
Considering Cena’s recent overexposure, a hiatus from the ring might serve to make the hearts of fans grow fonder. The matches against Theory and Sikoa, on paper, sound compelling—a legendary veteran returning to put over the next generation.
However, WWE hasn’t capitalized on the momentum generated in those matches, partly due to the lack of storytelling leading up to those encounters.
To avoid falling into the same narrative trap, WWE requires more time to weave a compelling tale around another potential Cena match.
If the conversation shifts towards a retirement match for one of the all-time greats, the clock is ticking, and there is precious little time left to build such a monumental storyline.
Considering the potential gravity of a retirement match for Cena, WrestleMania 41 seems a more fitting stage.
Providing the necessary time to simmer and build, even if it means sporadic appearances until the ‘Mania season kicks off next year, would add a layer of significance to what could be a career-defining moment.
However, this doesn’t mean Cena can’t play a role in WrestleMania 40. A segment where he crosses paths with a superstar set to compete against him in a future retirement match could add a compelling layer to this year’s event.
Alternatively, an appearance as the outright host of WrestleMania could capitalize on Cena’s broad appeal beyond wrestling, enticing viewers who may not typically tune in.
Moreover, such a hosting role could serve as a launching pad for a retirement match a year later. Picture Cena engaging in an extended standoff with CM Punk or receiving a challenge from Randy Orton for a match in the following year.
These scenarios, involving old rivalries, could be the foundation for a memorable farewell tour.
This prolonged booking approach aligns with the story-based focus of the Triple H era and offers WWE an incredible year of press coverage from both wrestling and non-wrestling outlets.
It sets the stage for what could be a legendary farewell tour for Cena, generating excitement and nostalgia throughout the wrestling community.
Ultimately, this deliberate and calculated approach would provide the necessary build-up to Cena’s final match, ensuring that his last appearances carry the weight and impact they deserve.
A well-orchestrated send-off would contrast with a hastily arranged match at WrestleMania 40, ensuring that Cena’s contributions to the event remain truly significant amidst a stacked two-night card.
