John Cena’s bout against AJ Styles at WWE Crown Jewel was widely celebrated as a highlight of Cena’s retirement tour, with many fans considering it among the year’s best matches. Originally, however, the plan for this October pay-per-view was for Cena to face Drew McIntyre instead.
Cena recently revealed on the No-Contest podcast that the matchup with McIntyre was scheduled but changed after Cena publicly mentioned Styles in a tweet. The enthusiastic fan response to mentioning Styles appeared to influence this shift in plans, sidelining McIntyre from the spotlight.
McIntyre’s Perspective on the Matchup Change
Speaking to CBS Sports during the WWE 2K26 hands-on event in Stamford, McIntyre acknowledged he was aware of the initial plan but accepted the change with professionalism and focus.
I keep my head down and keep working no matter what happens. I can’t take his phone and say, ‘Just tweet my name.’
He emphasized that he does not have control over his opponents but has learned to keep working regardless of creative decisions.
I can’t change the creative direction,
McIntyre stated.
I talked about getting a match with Cena. Getting a situation on the microphone with Cena to prove what I’m capable of because I want to compete with the best. He was the best on the microphone. I heard the quote John gave.
McIntyre reflected on Cena’s decision to pivot based on fan input and the excellent quality of the match that followed.
Whatever people weren’t feeling or going on, they decided to pivot. He outright asked if the people wanted AJ. The match was incredible. I could sit there and go, ‘Damn, what if he tweeted my name?’ But the reality is he’s retired, and I’m world champion, so it worked out fine for Drew McIntyre.
McIntyre’s Recent Success and Future Outlook
At the time of the interview, McIntyre carried the undisputed WWE Championship, marking his third world title reign. His previous title runs were marked by unique challenges—the first during empty arenas amid the pandemic and a notably brief second reign. Now, as WWE heads toward WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas’ Allegiant Stadium on April 18 and 19, McIntyre stands as the reigning champion, ready to perform in front of tens of thousands of fans.
He has come a long way from his early days, which included being released by WWE in 2014 and mistakenly recognized for his boy band aesthetic. The setback at Crown Jewel was yet another reminder for McIntyre to keep focusing on what he can control.
Things happen the way they’re supposed to,
McIntyre said.
Many times I’ve been frustrated. I knew something was the right thing to do. But you have someone like Triple H leading the charge.
Fan Influence and WWE’s Creative Decisions
The change from a Cena-McIntyre match to Cena facing AJ Styles highlights how fan reactions can impact wrestling storylines and matchups. Cena’s tweet calling for fans to voice their preference played a role in prompting WWE to adjust its original plans. Styles’ performance lived up to expectations, securing the match as a standout moment in Cena’s farewell schedule.
McIntyre’s experience underlines the uncertainty wrestlers often face regarding creative directions and opponent selection, leaving much up to key decision-makers like Triple H.
Looking Ahead: WWE 2K26 and WrestleMania
WWE 2K26 is set for global release on March 13, with early access available March 6 for those purchasing special editions such as King of Kings, Attitude Era, or Monday Night Wars. This release coincides with the buildup to WrestleMania 42, where McIntyre will defend his title in front of one of WWE’s largest live audiences.
As WWE evolves and events unfold, Drew McIntyre remains a central figure, exemplifying resilience and determination in a shifting landscape shaped by fan engagement and creative choices.
I do not choose my opponents, but I (even through tough times) ALWAYS listen to the fans.@AJStylesOrg are you listening?
Better yet @TripleH ….. are YOU listening???#CenaVsStyles https://t.co/BNspbeUxXd— John Cena (@JohnCena) September 23, 2025
