John Cena’s final WWE appearances have included a decisive loss to Brock Lesnar, which many critics, including Cena’s father, have found disappointing in its execution. The Brock Lesnar John Cena feud, marked by a swift defeat for Cena at the September 20 WrestlePalooza event in Indianapolis, has come under scrutiny. Cena Sr. voiced his thoughts during a recent interview with Dr. Chris Featherstone on the UnSKripted podcast, expressing dissatisfaction with how WWE booked his son’s farewell matches.
Concerns Over the Quick Loss and Missed Storytelling Opportunities
John Cena Sr. described the bout against Brock Lesnar as a “squash match,” emphasizing that the rapid defeat did not provide a satisfying conclusion for Cena’s fans or legacy. He suggested that WWE might have created a more compelling scenario by involving outside interference or a buildup that leads to a follow-up match. Cena Sr. stressed the emotional impact the outcome had on younger viewers, indicating that losing in such a manner was not the best way to treat an iconic star’s final run.
A smart thing would have been at some point maybe we had an outside interference. Maybe we had a – I don’t like count-outs – but the outside interference setting up the next match with Cena, whomever that might have been. When I saw those kids crying, that is not the way you want to have business go.
– John Cena Sr., father of John Cena
Reflections on Cena’s Heel Turn and Its Fallout
Earlier in the interview, Cena Sr. discussed the decision to turn John Cena into a heel earlier this year, calling the initial shock value “great” but feeling the storyline ultimately faltered. He pointed out that the departure of key wrestlers involved in the angle significantly weakened the impact of Cena’s character change. According to Cena Sr., this caused the heel turn to lose relevance, diminishing the stakes for those invested in the storyline’s direction.
Turning John Cena heel was a great idea. The shock factor was great. But I think the storyline was destroyed. And that was a very poor move in my opinion because it was a big gamble for everyone that was involved. And to see how it started and then to see the characters who were involved no longer be present, well, the heel turn almost became non-essential. That was something I really wasn’t too hyped up on.
– John Cena Sr., father of John Cena
Positive Elements of Cena’s Farewell Tour
Despite his criticisms, Cena Sr. acknowledged some positive aspects of the farewell arc, especially the decision to return John Cena to a fan-favorite role just before SummerSlam. He praised WWE for timing this move well and highlighted Cena’s respectful attitude toward the fans and younger talent. Cena Sr. views Cena’s farewell as a meaningful transition that honors Cena’s legacy while making space for rising stars.
I think the positive aspects of this is the face turn. I think that was a real positive move. I think they did it at the right time. I just think that what he’s done and what he’s doing and the legacy he will leave behind is really positive because if you listen to what he has to say, it’s not about John Cena. Part of it is he’s thanking the fans and he said it’s my turn to leave so some of the great young talent in the back can come forward.
– John Cena Sr., father of John Cena
Upcoming Match at WWE Crown Jewel: Perth
Looking ahead, John Cena is set for another significant appearance at WWE Crown Jewel: Perth, scheduled for October 11 at the RAC Arena in Perth, Western Australia. There, he will face off against AJ Styles, a fellow professional wrestling legend. This bout is anticipated to be a major event, providing Cena with another high-profile match during his farewell run.
Fans and followers of professional wrestling can stay updated with live coverage of WWE Crown Jewel: Perth through WrestlingHeadlines.com on the day of the event. Cena’s next match is expected to carry considerable significance as he continues to close his storied career.
