John Cena is scheduled to have his final WWE match in December 2025, marking the end of an era for the iconic wrestler known as The Franchise Player. As his retirement approaches, speculation has grown around who might be chosen as his opponent, with Sami Zayn emerging as a potential candidate to receive a significant push during Cena’s send-off. This discussion gains attention because it involves WWE’s future star development and creative decisions under Triple H’s leadership.
Vince Russo Criticizes WWE’s Recent Star Building Efforts
Vince Russo, a former WWE writer, has expressed concerns about WWE’s inability to build new stars in the lead-up to John Cena’s final match. Speaking on Behind The Turnbuckle Studios’ The Coach and Bro Show, Russo pointed out that under Triple H’s creative regime, few wrestlers have been effectively positioned as strong contenders for the WWE World Championship. Notably, Russo highlighted Sami Zayn as the only active competitor consistently portrayed as a future world champion, suggesting that Triple H might have Cena put Zayn over in his retirement bout.
“So, as soon as you’ve got that time frame [John Cena’s retirement], we’re going to start building these three talents, and we’re going to incorporate them over the next year. They’ve failed to do any of that… Who’s the only guy that they’ve really, really protected? Who’s the only guy on television every week saying he’s the next WWE World Champion? I would not be surprised if he [Triple H] put Sami Zayn over in the [John Cena’s] last match,” Russo said.
—Vince Russo, Former WWE Writer
The Rise and Impact of Sami Zayn
Sami Zayn’s recent achievements have earned him considerable acclaim from fans and peers alike. After joining The Bloodline faction in 2022, Zayn quickly became a fan favorite, especially following his expulsion from the group. He later formed a highly praised tag team with Kevin Owens and even ended Gunther‘s lengthy reign as Intercontinental Champion at WrestleMania 40. Despite these feats, some critics remain skeptical about Zayn’s readiness to headline as a world champion in WWE.
Opposition to Sami Zayn as World Champion
Vince Russo has been outspoken in his disapproval of Sami Zayn being positioned as the company’s next world champion, even declaring on social media that he would stop following WWE if this booking decision occurs. Russo’s reaction adds tension to the discussion about WWE’s strategic choices during a crucial transitional period. While Zayn has strong support from many fans and fellow wrestlers, this controversy highlights differing opinions within the wrestling community regarding future main-event stars.
The Significance of Cena’s Final Opponent and Future Developments
John Cena’s last in-ring match represents a milestone for WWE, offering a platform to elevate emerging talents. Should Triple H decide to have Sami Zayn win this bout, it could signal a definitive push toward new stars capable of carrying WWE forward. The creative decisions made now will affect WWE’s landscape as John Cena retires from active wrestling. Fans and insiders alike await official confirmation of Cena’s opponent and the match’s outcome, knowing it will shape the company’s direction in the coming years.
