Speculation over John Cena’s final opponent has intensified, but one popular suggestion has already been shot down. Former WWE writer Vince Russo dismissed the idea of Bron Breakker stepping into that historic role, arguing the young powerhouse lacks the aura required for such a marquee moment.
Speaking on his Writing with Russo podcast, Russo made it clear he doesn’t view Breakker as a main-eventer. “I don’t think so, bro, I don’t,” he said. “God, I swear to God, and I said this from day one. This guy’s freaking name alone is gonna hold him back. I don’t think, listen, he is a solid, solid, solid, solid player. Is he main event? I look at him right now, and I don’t see that man. I just don’t see that. I see a very strong, you know, generic wrestler. I mean, that’s what I see.”
Russo’s take contrasts with another school of thought surrounding Cena’s farewell tour. On Busted Open Radio, WWE Hall of Famer Bully Ray argued the company has steered toward a more straightforward retirement arc after an aborted attempt to revisit Cena’s heel turn storyline with The Rock. In his view, the farewell needs a believable threat.
“You need John to be able to beat somebody that people know there’s a good chance John ain’t winning this one,” Bully said. “They know he’s gonna beat Bron. There’s a good chance he does not beat Brock.”
That philosophy appears to be in motion, with Brock Lesnar emerging as the likely opponent. Last week’s SmackDown closed with Lesnar planting R-Truth with an F-5, a clear signal of his looming collision with Cena at WrestlePalooza.
The creative direction surrounding Cena’s last run remains under scrutiny, with even details such as his continued use of the heel-era “Last Real Champion” nickname drawing criticism from voices like Lance Storm. What’s clear is that every choice in this farewell chapter is being dissected as the company works to deliver a fitting sendoff for one of its biggest stars.