John Cena is set to face AJ Styles at the Crown Jewel event in Perth, Australia, marking a key moment in his farewell tour. This highly anticipated match has drawn attention amid growing concerns about WWE‘s handling of Cena’s exit from the company.
The John Cena farewell tour is intended to celebrate the career of one of WWE’s most iconic wrestlers, drawing fans eager to witness his final bouts. However, former WWE writer Vince Russo has expressed frustration over how WWE planned Cena’s send-off, specifically regarding the booking of his match against Styles.
History of Rivalry Between Cena and AJ Styles
John Cena and AJ Styles share a storied history in WWE, having clashed at several notable events. Their rivalries spanned from Money in the Bank to SummerSlam in 2016, continuing through Royal Rumble 2017. Fans have long awaited one last confrontation between these two wrestling legends as part of Cena’s farewell tour, a demand WWE eventually fulfilled by scheduling their match at the upcoming pay-per-view event.
Leading up to the match, AJ Styles has intensified anticipation by cutting sharp promos aimed at Cena, adding further drama to what many expect to be a memorable showdown. This buildup seeks to highlight their past battles while providing fresh tension ahead of their encounter in Australia.
Vince Russo Voices Disapproval Over WWE’s Farewell Strategy
During a recent episode of Writing with Russo, the veteran writer criticized WWE for what he sees as a lack of foresight in planning John Cena’s farewell tour. He argued that the upcoming match was booked primarily due to fan demand rather than careful creative planning, citing disruption caused by The Rock’s absence after Elimination Chamber as a turning point.
“I swear, it almost sickens me that they had absolutely no plan for Cena’s farewell. They’re pulling out this match from their backside because the internet wrestling community wants it because it will be great wrestling. I will give them the benefit of the doubt. It is crystal clear, something happened with The Rock. Cena turned heel, Rock never showed up again. So there’s no question something went south. Listen, you can’t plan on something going south.” He continued, “That’s when you go to plan B. Especially if plan A goes south, you’re gonna put extra effort on plan B. So we’ve seen them turn Cena back babyface for no reason, no nothing. And now, in his farewell tour with six dates or something, we’re booking him in good wrestling matches. That’s atrocious! That is absolutely atrocious.”
Russo’s disappointment stems from WWE’s perceived indecisiveness and reactive creative choices, which he feels complicate Cena’s farewell story arc instead of giving it the strategic build it deserves.
Anticipation Builds for Cena vs. Styles Match
The match between John Cena and AJ Styles remains highly anticipated because of the performers’ history and styles. Coming off a physically demanding match with Brock Lesnar, Cena’s performance against Styles will be heavily scrutinized as fans and analysts watch to see how he handles another intense bout during his farewell tour.
This match could potentially stand out as a highlight in Cena’s final run, showcasing his enduring skill and the competitive spirit that has defined his career. AJ Styles’ commitment to building the feud with aggressive promos further raises expectations for a compelling contest.
What This Means for WWE’s Creative Direction
WWE’s management of John Cena’s farewell tour, particularly in relation to the booking of high-profile matches like the one against AJ Styles, highlights broader concerns about the company’s creative planning. Vince Russo’s commentary suggests that WWE may have underestimated the complexity involved in providing a fitting send-off for one of its biggest stars.
Going forward, the way WWE handles such major milestones could influence fan perception and the overall quality of its storytelling. The John Cena farewell tour, despite criticism, remains a critical moment for the company and its audience, with the upcoming Crown Jewel event serving as a pivotal chapter in this closing act.
