Beating John Cena at WrestleMania, the WWE’s most high-profile event, is often seen as a career-defining moment. However, for Austin Theory, this victory did not translate into lasting success. Grayson Waller, an NXT talent who once teamed with Theory, recently shared his perspective on why WrestleMania‘s impact on WWE careers can sometimes fall short.
Waller, who currently accompanies the New Day under the nickname ‘Big-G,’ spoke openly about his professional relationship with Theory and their tag team “A-Town Down Under,” which ended after Theory suffered an injury that sidelined him. During a RAW Recap segment, Waller expressed frustration over Theory’s lack of gratitude, claiming he was instrumental in salvaging Theory’s career after Cena’s public “burying” of Theory on live television.
You know what Austin Theory never did? He never said thank you to me for saving his career. You remember that time John Cena buried him live on national television? I remember that. That’s one of my favorite things I’ve ever seen. I watch that at least once a week.I remember going to WrestleMania that year. I was with NXT, I’m up in the stands with Carmelo Hayes and I watched Theory beat John Cena and no one cared, and I was like, I know how to make an impact on the main roster. How do I make an impact on the main roster? I’m gonna save Austin Theory’s career, and that’s exactly what I did. He’s never been more relevant than when he was with Grayson Waller.” —Grayson Waller, WWE Wrestler
The Genesis and Rise of the Theory-Cena Rivalry
The rivalry between Austin Theory and John Cena began when Theory openly confronted Cena backstage during Cena’s 20th-anniversary celebration in 2022. Their animosity intensified with a raw and heated promo exchange on Monday Night RAW in March 2023. Cena challenged Theory’s dedication and confidence, escalating their feud further.
At WrestleMania 39 in April 2023, Theory successfully defended his United States Championship against Cena, a match many expected to elevate Theory’s status in WWE. Despite this significant victory, the win failed to resonate with fans or guarantee long-term success, illustrating the complex nature of WrestleMania‘s impact on WWE careers.
The Decline of Austin Theory’s WWE Tenure
Once hailed by Vince McMahon as “The Chosen One,” Austin Theory’s early career was promising, boasting accomplishments such as becoming the youngest U.S. Champion and winning the Money in the Bank contract. Yet, following a change in WWE’s creative leadership under Triple H, Theory’s trajectory faltered.
Critical setbacks included a poorly executed Money in the Bank cash-in and a lackluster second reign as U.S. Champion, compounded by Cena’s scathing promo that questioned Theory’s work ethic. His subsequent tag team formation with Grayson Waller offered some resurgence, culminating in a WrestleMania XL Tag Title win. However, the partnership dissolved in July 2025 with Waller publicly condemning Theory’s dedication and career choices.
After losing a match against El Grande Americano on July 14 and suffering an injury, Theory was placed on WWE’s inactive list on August 6, 2025, casting uncertainty over his future with the promotion.
WrestleMania’s Limited Role in Sustaining WWE Superstars’ Momentum
WrestleMania often serves as a critical platform for WWE wrestlers to cement their legacies. Yet, the experience of Austin Theory highlights that a marquee victory alone cannot ensure a lasting career at the top. Despite defeating a legend like John Cena, Theory’s inability to maintain relevance amid creative shifts and backstage dynamics resulted in his career stalling.
Grayson Waller’s candid remarks emphasize the importance of support, collaboration, and consistent storytelling beyond marquee wins. As WWE continues evolving, future talents may learn that WrestleMania victories represent important chances but must be part of a broader career-building strategy to secure long-term success.
