During a recent interview, Liv Morgan offered her perspective on why John Cena decided to tap out in his farewell WWE match, a topic that has stirred significant debate among fans and insiders since the event took place at Saturday Night’s Main Event. Morgan’s revelation shines a light on the emotional and symbolic aspects behind Cena’s choice, providing new context for those questioning the way his storied career concluded.
John Cena, often celebrated as one of WWE’s icons, faced Gunther—known as the Ring General—in what was billed as his final match. After a hard-fought encounter, Cena submitted to Gunther, officially bringing his wrestling career to an end. The outcome immediately divided the wrestling world, including longtime followers and high-profile members within the industry. Many wondered why the company had Cena, the so-called Greatest of All Time, finish by submission instead of leaving on a high note.
Mixed Reactions and Liv Morgan’s Emotional Perspective
Amid debates over the result, Liv Morgan shared her candid feelings during an appearance on
“What’s Your Story? With Steph McMahon.”
She reflected on her experience of watching Cena’s final moments, focusing on the emotional depth of the crowd and the atmosphere in the arena.
“As a John Cena fan, the number one fan growing up, I thought it was perfect. I think the element of the crowd wanting so badly for him to break out of that hold. If I wasn’t crying at John Cena, I was crying at the crowd’s belief that he was gonna come out of the hold,”
she said.—Liv Morgan, WWE Superstar
For Morgan, the emotional charge of the crowd, alongside Cena’s struggle, created an almost perfect conclusion, emphasizing the unique bond between the superstar and his supporters.
Interpreting Cena’s Decision to Tap Out
Liv Morgan went further to explain the deeper significance behind Cena’s choice to submit, offering her interpretation of his final gesture. She focused on Cena’s facial expression and the broader meaning it conveyed, suggesting there was more to it than mere defeat.
“I feel like you could look at his facial a couple different ways. Was he smiling because this was the end and he was gracious to let it go? Or, you know, he could be a little bit cheeky, like, he f*cking gave that to Gunther. He didn’t have to tap. He f*cking gave that to Gunther because his time was up, you know what I mean? That was it. In my mind it’s like, John Cena didn’t tap out because he had to tap out, he tapped out because time was f*cking up and it’s Gunther’s turn,”
she added.—Liv Morgan, WWE Superstar
According to her, Cena’s submission was not a sign of defeat, but rather a statement: passing the torch to Gunther and signifying a changing of the guard in WWE. She implied that the choice was Cena’s own, marking the end of an era and the beginning of another.
Liv Morgan’s Role in Cena’s Retirement Tour
Liv Morgan herself played a part in John Cena’s retirement tour. During Survivor Series, Cena defended his Intercontinental Title against Dominik Mysterio. Despite efforts from The Judgment Day to tip the scales, Morgan made a surprise return after an extended absence, dramatically altering the course of the match.
Making her presence known, Morgan confronted Dominik Mysterio before escalating the situation by targeting Cena directly. She slapped Dominik, then straddled Cena in a moment that hinted at a potential partnership. Instead, she betrayed the 17-time World Champion, delivering a low blow that allowed Dominik to reclaim the Intercontinental championship.
The Lasting Impact of Cena’s Farewell
The events of Cena’s retirement, and Morgan’s insights into his decision to tap out, highlight a pivotal point for WWE and its fan base. As John Cena moves on from his in-ring career, the way he chose to depart continues to resonate, sparking discussions about legacy and transition. Morgan’s reflections echo the sentiments of many—recognizing the significance of passing the torch and acknowledging that the end of one era makes way for new champions to emerge.
