That John Cena vs. AJ Styles match fans thought might not happen? Turns out it was all part of WWEs plan.
According to Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio, the long-teased bout set for WWE Crown Jewel in Australia was never in doubtit was always booked and just part of a calculated move to make fans think it was slipping away.
Over the past week, Cenas cryptic social media posts fueled speculation. From hinting at retirement to tagging Triple H directly, the storyline felt real enough to make fans nervous. But Meltzer says thats exactly what WWE wanted.
Adding fuel to the fire, Styles delivered an emotional promo after Raw went off the air, venting about being overlooked. According to Meltzer, that wasnt a shootit was more scripted build-up designed to lead right into this match.
This isnt just another match between two legends. Cena and Styles had an unforgettable rivalry from 2016 to 2018, including their classic Royal Rumble clash in 2017 where Cena tied Ric Flairs record by beating Styles for his 16th world title. Fans still talk about that bout as one of the best of the last decade.
Now, the two icons are set to run it back one last time at WWE Crown Jewel on October 11 in Perth, Australia. Cenas retirement tour continues after that, with only two Raw appearances in November, Survivor Series on November 29, and his officially scheduled final match at Saturday Nights Main Event on December 13.
WWE worked the fans hard on this onebut did it pay off? Are you glad Cena vs. Styles is really happening, or do you think the fake-out was too much? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know if youre hyped for this final showdown.
