Consideration of Alternatives to Austin Theory
WWE has been considering several options for John Cena’s opponent at WrestleMania 39, which takes place on April 2 and 3, 2023, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. One of the top alternatives was Cody Rhodes. Some people in WWE wanted Rhodes to face Cena because the match would have had significant meaning. However, Rhodes won the men’s Royal Rumble match and will challenge Roman Reigns for the undisputed WWE Universal Championship on Night 2. Several WWE Superstars asked to be Cena’s opponent, including Logan Paul. However, WWE eventually chose Austin Theory.
Comparing Austin Theory to Young John Cena
Theory is a fast-rising star and has been compared to a young John Cena. His push hasn’t slowed down since becoming Vince McMahon’s handpicked choice to be a future world champion in WWE. The presentation of Theory changed when Triple H took over as WWE head of creative. It can be argued that he entered The Show of Shows in a better place than at any other point in his career.
Backstory between Austin Theory and John Cena
The backstory for the match between Cena and Theory goes back to mid-2022 when Theory cut a promo on Cena backstage during an episode of Raw celebrating Cena’s 20-year anniversary in WWE. Theory periodically dropped hints about a potential future match against Cena after that moment. The two finally agreed on the WrestleMania match after Theory challenged The Cenation Leader.
Austin Theory Defeats John Cena
On Night 1 of WrestleMania 39, Austin Theory defeated John Cena in a highly anticipated grudge match to retain the United States Championship title. Initially, Cena made Theory tap out while referee Chad Patton was unconscious on the canvas after taking an inadvertent kick to the face from The Now. However, Theory came back strong and connected on a low blow on the 16-time world champion to secure the victory.
John Cena’s Performance and Future Opponents
This match was a significant event for John Cena as it marked his first WrestleMania singles match in front of a live audience since 2018. Cena has been reducing his wrestling appearances since transitioning into Hollywood movies, but he still participates for one or two matches annually.
In conclusion, Austin Theory’s victory against John Cena at WrestleMania 39 was a significant moment and helped elevate his star power even further. However, it is worth noting that Cody Rhodes also has his sights set on winning the WWE Championship, which his late father Dusty Rhodes never achieved. If Cena continues to wrestle a match or two every year, there could be future opportunities for a match against Rhodes.
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