John Cena’s farewell tour is drawing to a close amid growing criticism toward WWE and its parent company TKO for the management of the retirement events. The John Cena farewell tour has been troubled by constant creative shifts and missed opportunities, fueling frustration among fans and industry insiders alike.
Creative Missteps Undermine Cena’s Retirement Storyline
Inside WWE, reports reveal that the company is aware the farewell tour has not met expectations due to ongoing changes in creative direction. Critics argue that a major storyline turning point—a heel turn for Cena—was wasted when The Rock did not make a return to WWE television to continue the narrative, resulting in an unresolved buildup. Currently, Cena’s final match is scheduled to take place at the Saturday Night Main Event on December 13, 2025, though his opponent remains undecided.
Paul Walter Hauser Condemns TKO’s Handling of Cena’s Farewell
Actor and wrestling enthusiast Paul Walter Hauser spoke candidly on TMZ’s Inside the Ring podcast, accusing TKO of ruining the farewell tour. He expressed disappointment that the company allowed Brock Lesnar to defeat Cena prematurely, arguing that many other wrestlers could have contributed greater value to the farewell run.
“I think it’s TKO. They’re butchering it. I think it would have been nice if John Cena’s farewell tour included a great mesh of prior opponents that have known him for 20 years and future stars who could use the rub. I would have loved to have seen Cena fight people like The Miz. I would have loved to see Cena fight Jericho, The Miz, Sheamus, Triple H, uh, Brock win and beat Brock. Um, why did they do that? It just feels so pointless. Why? What was the point? Seriously, guys, what was the point of that?”
Paul Walter Hauser, Actor
Hauser suggested that the tour lacked cohesion and missed chances to highlight both Cena’s past rivalries and elevate emerging talent, leaving fans questioning the purpose behind key booking decisions. Currently, Cena is set to face AJ Styles at Crown Jewel 2025, a matchup that Styles has boldly hinted could be defining for both stars.
Former WWE Star Pushes for Rematch With AJ Styles
Adding to the buzz, a former WWE star has proposed a significant rematch with AJ Styles, decades after their last encounter. This suggestion underscores the ongoing interest and high stakes surrounding Cena’s final chapter and related matches in WWE programming.
Trish Stratus Shares Emotional Tribute Following Mother’s Death
Meanwhile, WWE legend Trish Stratus took to social media to honor her late mother, sharing a heartfelt update that resonated deeply with fans and the wrestling community.
Fan Calls Grow Loud for WWE to Replace Triple H
Fan sentiment has increasingly turned against Triple H, WWE’s Chief Content Officer since August 2022, with movements calling for his removal. Triple H’s leadership in WWE’s creative direction has drawn criticism amid ongoing controversies, including dissatisfaction with the handling of high-profile storylines like Cena’s farewell tour.
High-Stakes Matches Could Shape WWE’s Future Storylines
Tensions remain high as Seth Rollins faces a crucial WWE future-defining match against Cody Rhodes, while major twists are anticipated in the Roman Reigns and Jey Uso storyline. Currently aligned as a team, the potential shift in their dynamic is expected to impact WWE’s programming direction.
Wrestling Roster Faces Potential Shakeups as Free Agents Emerge
The wrestling industry is also bracing for additional roster challenges as a five-time WWE champion prepares to become a free agent soon, raising speculation about the future landscape not only in WWE but also in TNA and other promotions.
Speculation Mounts Over Triple H’s Possible Successor at WWE
Industry insiders and wrestling journalists have pointed to potential candidates to succeed Triple H as WWE’s creative figurehead. This discussion further reflects the dissatisfaction surrounding current management and WWE’s booking choices.
Ongoing Criticism Highlights Urgency for WWE to Reassess Farewell Plans
The backlash against TKO and WWE for botching John Cena’s farewell tour underscores a broader unease within the wrestling community about creative mismanagement. With Cena’s final matches still upcoming, the pressure is on for WWE to deliver a fitting send-off for one of its most iconic performers. Fans and wrestlers alike are watching closely, hoping for a stronger finish that honors Cena’s legacy and restores confidence in WWE’s future storytelling.
