All last week, WWE ambassador John Cena was teasing he’s break “massive news” at WWE Backlash. We heard a lot of jokes and a few rumors about what the Never Seen 17 might reveal, then at the premium live event in Tampa, Florida this past Saturday (May 9) he told us… and we’re still not entirely sure what it is.
It’s called The John Cena Classic, and conceptually it sounds a lot like the card for his Saturday Night’s Main Event retirement show in Washington, D.C. last year: rising stars vs. established
ones. The winner of the Classic, and the new John Cena title, will be voted on by the fans — and doesn’t require the Classic winner to have won their actual match in the Classic.
That all led to questions, a rumor WWE considers the whole idea is a “work in progress”, and more jokes. In the midst of it all, on Sunday Cena put out a statement admitting the Classic is still being figured out. His post also reminds us of his post-wrestling mission statement, and explains how the Classic aligns with those values:
When asked to give advice, especially with WWE, I often reply ‘be authentic’, ‘do not fear failure’, ‘know your why.’
The John Cena Classic may not be perfect by any means yet it’s authentically me (I am not perfect either) and reflects my values and beliefs.
I’m aware that there is the risk it might be a total failure and I’m not afraid of that and believe it’s still worth stepping ‘in the arena.’
My ‘why’ in WWE is to consistently be as useful as possible for as long as possible, with my in ring career at an end, my ‘why’ is to use whatever energy or relevance I have left in hopes to create a launchpad of opportunity for all talent to show their skills while simultaneously creating a unique experience for our dedicated fan base. At the very least.. we all learn something At the very best.. we all create something I’m ready for wherever the road takes us.
Thank you WWE for this opportunity
More details to come as we figure all this out!Sincerely,
John Cena
While fans and pundits worried about the details, WWE talent was getting busy using Cena’s announcement.
Lexus King took credit for the idea…
… and played the “invisible Cena” card when Danhausen called our his meme:
And Bayley co-signed a fan’s fantasy booking of a match between her and Tatum Paxley, and the current NXT Women’s North American titleholder quickly agreed:
So the roster isn’t hesitating because of some unclear guidelines. With a couple days to let it sink in, how are you feeling about John Cena’s foundation-shocking announcement?
