John Cena faced strong criticism for undermining one of WWE’s most promising factions, The Nexus, during a pivotal moment at SummerSlam 2010. This incident, frequently discussed among wrestling fans and insiders, centers on Cena’s role in a key match that many believe stalled the group’s momentum just as they were gaining traction.
The story began on June 7, 2010, during an episode of RAW, when The Nexus first launched their feud by attacking John Cena. Later that year, after losing to the group’s leader, Wade Barrett, at Hell in a Cell on October 3rd, Cena was forced into joining The Nexus, creating a high-stakes narrative for WWE fans.
However, the faction’s potential push suffered a devastating blow at SummerSlam, where they faced off against Team WWE, consisting of Cena, Bret Hart, John Morrison, R-Truth, Edge, Chris Jericho, and Daniel Bryan. Many believed The Nexus should have emerged victorious to cement their status as a formidable threat. Instead, Cena’s refusal to lose the match altered the planned finish, resulting in a defeat that many insiders and fans felt was a mistake.
Insider Account: David Otunga Confirms Cena Changed Match Outcome
David Otunga, a former member of The Nexus, echoed widespread sentiment during an interview with TMZ’s Inside the Ring. He recalled being informed just hours before SummerSlam that the match outcome had been changed, attributing the decision directly to Cena.
“I think collectively, people agreed, like, we should have won at SummerSlam. That’s an infamous story. We were supposed to win at SummerSlam all day until about an hour or two before showtime. The finish was changed, and we knew who changed it, and they told us who changed it. It was John Cena,” Otunga shared.
Otunga further recounted that despite support from other WWE veterans like Edge and Chris Jericho, who were in favor of The Nexus winning, Cena’s decision ultimately stood. This change severely impacted the faction’s trajectory, contributing to their eventual disintegration.
“We disagreed with it. And with the ending, we should have won, but Cena went over, and it completely cut the legs out from under us, and after that, Nexus kind of fell apart,” he added.
This version of events aligns with a strong feeling among observers that SummerSlam was a missed opportunity to elevate The Nexus as a leading force in WWE.
The Aftermath: SummerSlam’s Lasting Impact on The Nexus
Wrestling historian accounts note that SummerSlam was a crucial juncture for The Nexus, a faction that initially appeared poised to redefine WWE storylines. Their loss, especially with Cena carrying the spotlight, led to a noticeable drop in their influence and effectiveness as villains in the company.
Social media and wrestling communities continue to reflect on this moment, highlighting it as a turning point. A tweet from Cultaholic Wrestling commemorated the 15-year anniversary of Cena’s win over The Nexus, reinforcing the match’s lasting significance in WWE lore.
15 years ago today John Cena beat the Nexus in the main event of SummerSlam pic.twitter.com/bJO3FmJ0bn
Similar Controversies: Cena’s Match Against Brock Lesnar at WrestlePalooza
Half a decade later, John Cena found himself at the center of another contentious match outcome, this time at WrestlePalooza, where he was decisively beaten by Brock Lesnar in a squash match that left many spectators confused. While opinions vary, reports suggest that Cena’s decision to lose was influenced by his impending exit from regular competition and desire to elevate other wrestlers.
Brock Lesnar has the kids in the audience crying after delivering 6 F5’s to John Cena. 😭#Wrestlepaloozapic.twitter.com/F3DVbYMAbP
This match did little to repair Cena’s reputation with fans who recall the Nexus incident, fueling a narrative of frustration and disappointment regarding his handling of significant storyline moments.
Looking Ahead: Cena’s Upcoming WWE Appearance
Despite the lingering controversies, John Cena remains an active figure in WWE. He is scheduled to compete against AJ Styles at the Crown Jewel event in Perth, Western Australia, on October 11th. This appearance is part of a limited series of matches before his eventual retirement, marking the final stages of his in-ring career.
As Cena continues to perform, opinions remain divided on his legacy, largely shaped by moments like the SummerSlam 2010 match where many believe he halted a powerful faction’s rise. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how his remaining appearances impact WWE’s evolving storylines.
15 years ago today John Cena beat the Nexus in the main event of SummerSlam pic.twitter.com/bJO3FmJ0bn
— Cultaholic Wrestling (@Cultaholic) August 15, 2025
Brock Lesnar has the kids in the audience crying after delivering 6 F5’s to John Cena. 😭#Wrestlepalooza pic.twitter.com/F3DVbYMAbP
— PW Chronicle (@_PWChronicle) September 20, 2025
