How Matt Would Book: John Cena’s Retirement Tour

Published: Wednesday, November 27, 2024

by Matt Nazario

Defeating Gunther for the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania 41

One of the most debated topics among WWE fans is whether John Cena will break Ric Flair’s legendary record of 16 World Championships. The idea of Cena chasing the elusive 17 offers massive storytelling potential. Conveniently, one of WWE’s current champions is Gunther, one of the most dominant and imposing figures in modern wrestling. With Monday Night Raw moving to Netflix in January, WWE has a prime opportunity to plant the seeds for a Cena vs. Gunther title match on the debut episode. 

Rather than winning the Royal Rumble, Cena could earn his WrestleMania opportunity by triumphing in the annual six-man Elimination Chamber match. This match could feature rivals and allies from Cena’s storied career—names like CM Punk, Sheamus, The Miz, AJ Styles, and Randy Orton—alongside younger stars like Bron Breakker. Having Cena overcome a gauntlet of familiar foes would set the stage for a dramatic showdown at WrestleMania 41 in Las Vegas. Breaking Ric Flair’s record by defeating Gunther in his final WrestleMania would be the perfect crowning moment of Cena’s career. 

Optional: Winning the Intercontinental Championship

One challenge in booking Cena’s final run is time—balancing the focus between chasing World Title 17 and pursuing other accomplishments. One option would be to have Cena finally win the Intercontinental Championship, the only title missing from his résumé. However, prioritizing the World Heavyweight Championship may make more sense given its emotional and historical weight.

If time allows for both stories, an Intercontinental Championship reign could elevate Cena to Grand Slam Champion status. A clash with a young star like Bron Breakker, the current titleholder, could add a fresh dynamic to Cena’s final chapter while honoring his legacy. 

When Cena Loses the World Heavyweight Championship, He Retires

Cena’s retirement could be tied directly to his World Heavyweight Championship reign: the stipulation that when he loses the title, he retires from in-ring competition. This creates a sense of urgency and suspense, keeping fans invested in every title defense. Whether his final match occurs in 2025 or sooner, this added drama would enhance the emotional stakes of his final storyline.

While WWE has never fully embraced a heel turn for Cena, exploring a storyline where he struggles to let go of his career could make for compelling television. A desperate, more unhinged Cena clinging to his championship could add depth to his character and his final arc. 

The Return of the Cena Open Challenge

As champion, Cena could bring back his iconic “open challenge” format, which he popularized during his 2015 United States Championship reign. These challenges would allow him to face both established stars and rising talents, delivering dream matches and building future stars along the way. 

Weekly defenses may not be feasible given Cena’s age, but biweekly challenges would strike a balance. Names like Bron Breakker, Carmelo Hayes, Sheamus, AJ Styles, Ilja Dragunov, and Sami Zayn are prime candidates for these bouts. The unpredictability of the open challenge, paired with the looming threat of Cena’s retirement upon losing the title, would keep fans engaged.

A Beautiful Yet Heartbreaking Finale

The wrestling world is divided over how Cena’s final match should unfold. Should it be a nostalgic clash against a rival like Randy Orton or CM Punk? Or should it elevate a rising star? Ideally, it could do both.

A fitting end might involve Cena facing Orton in a “One Last Time” match for the World Heavyweight Championship. However, Dominik Mysterio could steal the spotlight by cashing in the Money in the Bank contract during or immediately after the bout, retiring Cena in shocking fashion. 

Dominik, already one of WWE’s most despised villains, would cement his status as a top heel by ending Cena’s career. This moment would be unforgettable, and Cena’s legacy would ensure fans accept the passing of the torch. 

Conclusion

John Cena’s 20+ year career is nothing short of legendary. From a rookie on the brink of being fired to becoming the face of WWE, his journey exemplifies hustle, loyalty, and respect. Cena’s retirement tour offers an opportunity to honor his legacy, craft unforgettable moments, and shape the future of WWE. Whether by breaking Ric Flair’s record or putting over a rising star, Cena’s final run promises to be a bittersweet chapter in wrestling history.

Matt Nazario can be reached at matthew.nazario@student.shu.edu. 

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