Two months after John Cena concluded his storied WWE career in December, the NXT Women’s Champion, Jacy Jayne, delivered pointed remarks regarding Cena’s retirement match on the latest episode of WWE’s developmental brand show. Cena, a former WWE Champion, wrapped up his retirement tour with a loss to ex-World Heavyweight Champion Gunther during Saturday Night’s Main Event (SNME).
During a promo ahead of her title defense against Sol Ruca, Jayne expressed frustration over Cena’s decision to place Ruca, rather than herself, as the face representing NXT on his retirement card. On that night, Ruca faced Bayley. Jayne said,
“I won this championship from Stephanie Vaquer, the same woman walking into WrestleMania as Women’s World Champion. The reigning, defending WWE NXT Women’s Champion, I had to sit at home on the couch and watch Saturday Night’s Main Event, John Cena’s Final Match, a man that I idolized my entire life, and you know who was representing NXT? It wasn’t me…It was Sol Ruca,”
she said.
Jacy Jayne’s Recent Main Roster Experience and Rivalry with Sol Ruca
This year, Jacy Jayne made her main roster debut by participating in the 2026 Women’s Royal Rumble match, a significant milestone for the NXT Champion. Notably, her challenger Sol Ruca also appeared in the same event and advanced to become one of the final three competitors, alongside former Women’s Champion Tiffany Stratton and the eventual winner, Liv Morgan. Jayne directed subtle criticism at Ruca for overshadowing her presence at the Royal Rumble, highlighting Ruca’s rise as a top contender.
As the build-up intensifies, it remains uncertain whether Jayne will maintain her hold on the NXT Women’s Championship or if Sol Ruca will claim the title in their upcoming match.
Implications for NXT and WWE’s Developmental Brand
Jacy Jayne’s comments shed light on the competitive dynamics within WWE’s developmental ranks, particularly regarding visibility and recognition among emerging stars. With Cena’s departure marking the end of an era, wrestlers like Jayne and Ruca are positioning themselves to fill the spotlight in the evolving WWE landscape. The outcome of their championship clash could shape the direction of the NXT Women’s Division moving forward.
"Enough is enough." 😧@jacyjaynewwe is NOT a @SolRucaWWE fan! pic.twitter.com/DqEzPLi1tw
— WWE (@WWE) February 18, 2026
