The relationship between the WWE Universe and John Cena has outlined one of the greatest (and most unique) careers of all time.
At this year’s Crown Jewel event in Saudi Arabia, one of WWE’s most iconic figures climbed back into the squared circle to answer the cheers of the fans once again. And though he may have come up short against Solo Sikoa, the ‘homecoming’ that John Cena has received as he seemingly winds down his run with the promotion has been a sight to see.
Many will argue that John Cena is not ‘the greatest of all time’ – as the promotion has begun claiming recently – he is still the greatest star of his generation. However, truly defining the pinnacles and potholes that have existed throughout the history of Cenation is much more complicated than that.
There’s no doubt that historians can someday write volumes about Cena’s accomplishments in the ring, in entertainment, and in pop culture. He’s one of the most popular performers in the history of professional wrestling, and his status as an all-time icon is unquestionable.
From his many title victories to his battles with fellow legends like Randy Orton, Bautista, Brock Lesnar, and (of course) The Rock, the 15-time WWE Champion has carved out a career like we’ve never seen… Even when we couldn’t see him.
John Cena Has An Expiration Date
But perhaps what has been the most unique part of his 20+ year tenure with the company has been the love-hate relationship the Superstar has had with the audience.
Today? Cena may be viewed as the ‘lovable old uncle’ of the WWE Universe, but his status with the fans previously is maybe the strangest one ever. As everyone recalls, despite never being booked as a heel, many fans would regularly boo him during his time on top. It was a strange, almost Pavlovian response, as they seemed to find new and inventive ways to jeer him.
And throughout almost his entire time on top, the crowd was split. Those who loved him for his personality and work ethic were typically outnumbered by more cynical fans – who knocked him for his lack of ring skills and his gigantic, unbelievable push.
In many ways, it’s fitting that things have come full circle now for the wrestler-turned-actor. He’s now achieved a level of fame and notoriety that people have to give him his due. And in many ways, he’s grown up right before our very eyes – and right alongside many of those fans who used to scream, Cena Sucks!
They’ve finally come together – John Cena and the WWE Universe. Most are in their 20s, 30s, and 40s now, and the nostalgia effect has started to kick in for them. So, they’ve had a bit of an Attitude Adjustment themselves as the years have gone by.
The two sides have finally met in the middle. And just in time, as Cena’s last few years of making appearances have been marked with a LOT more cheers and ovations, than jeers and boos. And at the end of the day? That’s a great thing for not only his legacy but also the message it sends from the WWE Universe (which might be more united now than it has been since Cena entered the company).
No matter what factors are involved, it’s great to see this match made in heaven. Because it’s the perfect ending to an (almost) perfect career.
There’s no way to predict exactly how long it will be before John Cena rides off into the sunset. But one thing’s for sure… Compared to the rocky road he has often traveled? It’s sure to be smooth sailing the rest of the way.
