John Cena’s backstage response following his recent defeat by Brock Lesnar at WWE Wrestlepalooza has come to light, generating discussion among fans and insiders. The match took place last Saturday, where Lesnar secured a decisive victory over Cena in under ten minutes, raising curiosity given Cena’s limited remaining WWE appearances and the lack of a planned rematch.
Details Behind Cena’s Decision to Lose
John Cena now has only five WWE appearances left, which has made his quick loss to Brock Lesnar all the more notable. Industry insiders have been questioning why Cena would take such a loss so close to the end of his career, especially without any rematch on the horizon. Speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer provided insight into the situation. He explained that although it wasn’t explicitly Cena’s idea, the wrestler wanted to be unselfish as he winds down his career, aiming to elevate other stars rather than protect his own record.
Meltzer noted,
“I don’t wanna say it was John’s idea, but what I was basically told is, John is very unselfish, and he knows on the way out he wants to make people. He wants to make big stars. So he felt that was… it’s his call. And that was his call.”
This decision reflects a common practice among veteran wrestlers nearing retirement, where they choose to lose in order to build up others in the roster. Meltzer added,
“A lot of guys, when they’re on their way out, their call is to lose and to put the other guy over. And that was John’s call.”
Authority and Creative Control in the Outcome
Although Cena made the choice, the final match outcome still ultimately rests with WWE’s leadership. Meltzer clarified the role of WWE executives in this scenario, saying,
“At the end of the day, it’s Paul Levesque’s call, but if John says that, it’s not like Paul Levesque’s gonna go, ‘No no no, you have to win.’ Especially when Brock is the one staying and he’s the one leaving, and whatever they have planned for Brock.”
This explanation highlights the collaborative nature of WWE’s match planning and how Cena’s willingness to step aside supports broader storyline and career trajectories, especially for Brock Lesnar, who remains a key figure in WWE’s future.
Implications for Cena’s Remaining Appearances and WWE Storylines
With Cena’s WWE career nearing its conclusion, his loss to Lesnar underscores a transition period within the company, where established stars are passing the torch to current leading figures. The absence of a rematch suggests that Cena’s departure will proceed without prolonging his feud with Lesnar, possibly shifting focus to new rivalries and story arcs employed by WWE.
This scenario also emphasizes Cena’s role as a mentor figure willing to prioritize the growth of other talent, reflecting a respectful and strategic approach to his exit from the ring. Fans can expect Cena’s upcoming appearances to further this trend as WWE continues to build new stars to carry the brand forward.
