As WrestleMania.
Many think it's inevitable that Cena will finally eclipse WWE Hall of Famer, 'The Nature Boy' Ric Flair, by winning a seventeenth world title. It's not a matter of if, but when. The fans responded raucously to The Dr. of Thuganomics when he made his ion play. That huge global setting—streaming worldwide on Netflix for the first time—was the perfect environment for Cena to lay out his battle plans.
However, there are several reasons why WWE fans should be careful what they wish for. Of course, seeing the living legend outlast all 29 other competitors for a shot at glory sounds great on paper. But, there are several reasons why the promotion should hold off on that outcome. The Royal Rumble is not the time or the place to set the wheels in motion for another Cena title shot.
Cena Should Chase the Title Throughout 2025
Winning a Shot at the Rumble Is Too Early
In the world of professional wrestling, it's often said that the money is in the chase, not the conquest. There's no way to quantify what will or won't be the greatest financial return, how or when Cena becomes the 17-time World Champion. But in of raw emotion and fanfare, the currency will be realized by holding the fans' attention.
If he wins the belt at WrestleMania, the remainder of his 2025 will be an afterthought. A mere farewell, a going-away tour that the fans might sour on isn't how John Cena or WWE want his story to end. He has been their golden boy for the better part of this new century, and there are certainly more exciting ways for him to make his exit.
Perhaps, it would be better for Cena to win Money in the Bank in July. If he were able to come out on top at that event, the remainder of his active time with the company could revolve around when he's going to cash in and break the record. That scenario would add much more intrigue to his final chapter and could provide the climactic end to his career that the audience is looking for.
There Are Several Other Worthy Contenders for the World Title
If Cena wins the Rumble, the outcome at Mania will be almost guaranteed. Every member of the WWE Universe will know what's coming next. However, there are several other stars in the promotion who would benefit much more than Big Match John, and whose storylines and interpersonal feuds are already intertwined with the Royal Rumble.
For Seth Rollins is looking to do everything possible to stop Punk form achieving his dream. former World Champions like Drew McIntyre have a lot of personal issues that could be resolved by winning the battle-royal contest. In the meantime, Kevin Owens might have something to say about any of those men standing tall at the end of the night.
It could be LA Knight, who is looking to get some of his fire back since losing the United States Championship. It could be an underdog like Sami Zayn, or even a star that's ready to be elevated to the next level - like Jey Uso. Factor in Roman Reigns, as well, who is looking to return to the Head of the Table and have a third main event with Cody Rhodes. Then again, The Rock might just decide to walk into the building that evening, and walk out as the Final Boss of the Rumble.
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The bottom line is: there are plenty of worthy names that benefit more from the Rumble victory and the spotlight of a WrestleMania main event. Cena doesn't, as his legacy is already cemented. However, he's no longer the unstoppable, unbeatable hero he was 15 years ago. It would be a much better scenario to see him eliminated by the winner, which would give that wrestler (whoever it may be) a double shot of credibility.
John Cena Can Still Win the Title After WrestleMania 41
One Year Is a Long Time
John Cena has all of 2025 to win the WWE Championship for the final time. WrestleMania takes place on April 19-20, leaving over half the calendar year to let this storyline build and burn slowly. As the clock keeps ticking towards that fatal date, it would be much more thrilling to see the Leader of the Cenation grab a win in 'sudden death overtime', so to speak. He could thrive in that role, even all the way right down to the last month, if necessary.
Of course, that might be toying with the fans' emotions, but isn't that what all good entertainment does? To stretch this angle out until the Fall would have the people hanging on Cena's every move. Any appearance, anytime he steps in the ring with a titleholder and every promise he makes that he will "get them the next time".
Should John Cena finally break the record and become the greatest World Champion in WWE history? Absolutely. He just shouldn't accomplish that feat by winning the Royal Rumble and taking the title at WrestleMania. Some good things in life and pro wrestling are worth waiting for, and Cena's titanic title victory is one of those.
- Founded
- January 7, 1953
World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) is a global entertainment company primarily known for professional wrestling. Founded in 1953, it produces live events, television programs, and streaming content. Headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut, WWE operates multiple brands, including Raw, SmackDown, and NXT.
