At SummerSlam 2025, John Cena’s legendary Attitude Adjustment finisher was noticeably diminished during his high-profile match against Cody Rhodes, who emerged as the dominant victor. This moment marked a crucial turning point in WWE’s storytelling, as Cena’s finisher appeared ineffective while Rhodes solidified his place as the new face of the company.
A Flawed Showcase at SummerSlam 2025
The showdown between John Cena and Cody Rhodes was a headline event at SummerSlam 2025, featuring a brutal street fight that was further intensified by Brock Lesnar’s surprise return. Despite the intense action, the match drew criticism for its booking, especially because Cena’s finishing move failed to have its usual impact. Cena delivered an astounding eight Attitude Adjustments during the bout, including high-risk variations like one on the announcer’s table, one on the ramp, and an Avalanche AA, yet Rhodes repeatedly kicked out. This sequence undermined the significance of Cena’s finisher, a move historically known for ending matches decisively against top-tier opponents like AJ Styles, Randy Orton, and Dwayne Johnson.
The match concluded with Rhodes securing victory after executing a double Cross Rhodes, a move that has never had the same match-ending reputation as the Attitude Adjustment. This outcome left many fans skeptical about the legitimacy of Rhodes’ win and raised concerns about the diminishing prestige of iconic WWE finishers.
Declining Impact of WWE’s Legendary Finishers
In recent years, WWE has faced challenges in maintaining the impact of its most famous finishing moves, which have gradually lost their ability to decisively end matches. Moves once regarded as sacred showstoppers are now treated more as routine maneuvers, reducing their emotional weight and excitement. Historically notable finishers like The Stunner, Spear, and Sweet Chin Music had a reputation for igniting strong fan reactions and serving as match-enders, but their repeated use and imitation have diluted their influence.
Legacy of The Stunner and Its Modern Variants
The Stunner, famously utilized by Stone Cold Steve Austin, stands as one of wrestling’s most iconic finishers, renowned for its suddenness and connection to Austin’s rebellious persona. Kevin Owens has successfully adopted the move in recent programming, yet despite precise execution, it lacks the raw intensity and crowd engagement Austin generated in his prime. The difference lies in Austin’s unpredictability and commitment to selling the move as a definitive climax, attributes that elevate the finisher beyond its physical mechanics.
The Spear: From Devastating to Routine
The Spear finisher has been popularized by multiple wrestlers, with Edge notably mastering it during WWE’s Attitude Era. Edge’s agility and creativity turned the Spear into a stunning and elegant weapon despite his lighter build compared to contemporaries like Bill Goldberg and Rhyno. Signature moments, such as his hits against Jeff Hardy at WrestleMania 17 and Mick Foley at WrestleMania 22, highlighted his skill and enhanced the move’s impression. Conversely, the Spear currently lacks its former impact when performed by others like Jey Uso, often combined with other moves, which softens fan reactions and reduces its effectiveness as a match-ender.
Sweet Chin Music’s Waning Significance
Shawn Michaels’ Sweet Chin Music remains one of WWE’s most emblematic finishers, noted for its dramatic execution and synergy with Michaels’ charismatic “Showstopper” persona. While modern wrestlers use the kick as a setup move, Michaels elevated it to an exclamation point within his matches, galvanizing audiences with each precise strike. No current performer matches the blend of character and crowd engagement he brought, leaving Sweet Chin Music’s legacy largely unmatched in the modern era.
Cody Rhodes: The New Vanguard of WWE
Since his 2022 return, Cody Rhodes has ascended to become WWE’s top star, carefully positioned by management led by Triple H. His resonance with fans stems not only from in-ring success—such as his emotional victory over Roman Reigns at WrestleMania XL—but also from embodying values that mirror John Cena’s appeal. His blend of resilience and heroism has drawn comparisons to Cena, with some dubbing him
“the John Cena of the current generation.”
“the John Cena of the current generation.”
—Fan Attribution
Rhodes’ journey has been marked by poignant moments that forged deep fan connections, including consecutive Royal Rumble wins and a storyline where Cena’s heel turn and assault on Rhodes dramatically shifted audience sympathy. The culmination of their rivalry at SummerSlam 2025 with a respectful title handover symbolized more than just championship change—it represented a passing of WWE’s legacy.
In a gesture reminiscent of Kurt Angle’s legacy transfer in 2002, Cena’s decision to hand over the Undisputed WWE Championship wasn’t simply about the belt but about entrusting his symbolic place in the company’s history to Rhodes. This moment solidifies Rhodes’ role as the industry’s current torchbearer as Cena approaches the final months of his Farewell Tour.
What Lies Ahead for John Cena’s Finisher and WWE’s Narrative Direction
As John Cena nears the conclusion of his WWE career, questions abound about whether the Attitude Adjustment will regain its former prestige or remain diminished following the SummerSlam debacle. The outcome at SummerSlam 2025 serves as a critical inflection point for WWE’s approach to both preserving and evolving the legacy of its most celebrated performers and their signature moves. Fans and analysts alike await how the company will balance honoring past icons with building new stars like Cody Rhodes.
