With John Cena approaching the final phase of his wrestling career, time is quickly running out to face him in the ring. On October 11, Cena will take on AJ Styles in what is expected to be one of the last stops on his retirement tour, marking a highly anticipated match rooted in their intense rivalry from 2016 and 2017. This event highlights the growing urgency among wrestlers to secure a bout with Cena during his limited remaining appearances.
The match between Cena and Styles was officially announced after a social media campaign by both athletes, though insiders say it had been in the works much earlier. Such a build-up through online interaction reportedly stems from Cena’s shrinking number of televised matches, limiting traditional storylines and promotions. Fans have embraced the announcement eagerly, yet some competitors express clear dissatisfaction about being left out of this opportunity.
Wrestlers Compete for a Chance to Face Cena Amid Final Matches
In a candid interview with Adrian Hernandez from Unlikely, WWE star The Miz opened up about his long journey in the wrestling industry and his close friendship with CM Punk. More notably, he revealed his deep frustration regarding his ongoing attempt to land a match against Cena during this retirement series.
The Miz clearly stated his mixed feelings about AJ Styles landing the match with Cena, expressing happiness for Styles but strong disappointment over his own exclusion.
“I’ll tell you what. I’ll tell you backstage, I was happy for AJ Styles, but very angry that it’s AJ Styles versus John Cena and not John Cena versus The Miz.”
Recalling a high point in his career, Miz reminded fans that he once defeated Cena at WrestleMania 27 in a rare main event victory for the WWE Championship, emphasizing his qualifications for a comeback match.
“I beat the guy at WrestleMania in the main event for the WWE Championship, one of the only people ever to do something like that, and I can’t get a match with John Cena. He’s got five dates left.”
He continued by highlighting that he has been advocating for a match with Cena since the star’s retirement tour began, even claiming to be the first wrestler to volunteer for the opportunity.
“The audience could say, ‘We want The Miz versus John Cena,’ and I would love to have one more match,” he said. “I’ve been talking about this since the retirement tour started. I was the first person to go ‘sign me up.’ I’m putting my name in the hat. When’s my number going to get called? Maybe never, because there’s only five left.”
AJ Styles Announces His Own Retirement Plans
Adding complexity to the scene, AJ Styles revealed on September 25 that he also plans to retire, aiming to possibly compete at WrestleMania 42 before stepping away from the sport. While details remain vague, Styles has confirmed his retirement year as 2026, signaling that the match with Cena might be among their last significant encounters.
Other WWE Developments Affecting Wrestlers and Fans
Several recent developments within WWE have stirred conversations beyond the Cena retirement tour. Former TNA Knockouts Champion Masha Slamovich issued a public response following allegations of domestic abuse, addressing the controversy directly. Meanwhile, a veteran WWE talent admitted to faking an in-ring injury, which led to Goldberg taking blame for the incident.
Reactions inside WWE were also strong after ESPN’s surprise review of Wrestlepalooza, which some insiders described as unexpectedly critical. Additionally, rumors suggest that WWE may have released an ex-champion due in part to issues involving Charlotte Flair, a central figure within the promotion.
Jazmyn Nyx openly discussed her departure from WWE via Instagram, seeking to clarify circumstances around her exit. Meanwhile, The Rock publicly endorsed a UFC champion for future WWE greatness, calling the athlete disciplined and committed. At the same time, The Rock avoided a major personal question, evoking an emotional moment among fans anticipating his Hollywood endeavors.
Finally, Randy Orton’s wife expressed frustration at WWE for neglecting to include him in some milestone events, despite his longstanding loyalty, highlighting ongoing tensions within the company.
The Significance of John Cena’s Final Matches and Wrestling’s Changing Landscape
John Cena’s final matches carry immense weight for both fans and fellow performers, serving as a farewell to one of wrestling’s biggest stars. Wrestlers like The Miz demonstrate the intense competition and emotions tied to earning a spot alongside Cena during this closing chapter. The limited number of remaining matches adds urgency to these opportunities, while AJ Styles’ impending retirement further underscores an era’s end.
As Cena’s retirement tour progresses, the fallout affects more than just the ring, influencing WWE’s roster dynamics, fan expectations, and the future of wrestling storylines. These final bouts are likely to be remembered for their significance in closing chapters of illustrious careers and shaping what comes next for WWE’s evolving landscape.
