SmackDown kicked off with a recap of the recent Money in the Bank event and an outline of the night’s matches, leading into a highly anticipated appearance by John Cena. The legendary 17-time champion boldly declared that his visage should adorn Mt. Rushmore of professional wrestling, asserting that no one can compare to his legacy across all eras.
During the segment, Cena recounted his strategic acumen, notably referencing his previous encounters with CM Punk, emphasizing his ability to outmaneuver opponents by forcing them into unique circumstances, such as their fight in Saudi Arabia. This drew the attention of Cody Rhodes, who acknowledged Cena’s prowess but reminded him that he had secured a victory over Cena at Money in the Bank.
Adding to the mix, Randy Orton expressed his intent to seize another title shot through the upcoming King of the Ring tournament, while LA Knight chimed in with his own views, prompting Cena to exit the conversation. However, as Cena made his way up the aisle, he was unexpectedly ambushed by R-Truth, who delivered an attack that illustrated the ongoing tension and feuds within the roster.
While Cena’s recent heel turn has been met with mixed reactions and hasn’t quite lived up to the monumental reputation expected, his ability to articulate his strategic mindset showcased a different facet of his character. Though the segment’s execution felt somewhat drawn-out and predictable, it nonetheless served to further the ongoing storylines leading into future events.
Fans can look forward to a continuation of the heated rivalries as the show progresses, with the King of the Ring tournament promising to introduce more excitement and potential surprises. The potential for unexpected twists in the narrative keeps viewers engaged, hinting at a thrilling path forward for WWE.