John Cena is undoubtedly one of WWE’s most prominent stars, with a significant influence on many wrestlers’ careers—both uplifting and hindering them at times. While some wrestlers benefited from feuds with Cena, gaining higher status and greater recognition, others lost momentum and saw their progress stall. Here are key examples of both outcomes:
10. AJ Styles – Made a Star
AJ Styles, relatively new to WWE, made a lasting impression through his rivalry with Cena. His big win at SummerSlam helped catapult him into the main event scene on SmackDown and eventually led to him becoming WWE Champion.
9. Rusev – Lost Momentum
Rusev was an undefeated US Champion until Cena defeated him at WrestleMania 31, ending his streak. This loss marked a decline in his momentum, and he was unable to regain his former prominence.
8. The Miz – Made a Star
The Miz’s feud with Cena, including a WrestleMania main event, helped legitimize his star power. This period marked the start of Miz’s steady rise as a consistent upper-midcard performer and future WWE Champion.
7. Bray Wyatt – Lost Momentum
Wyatt was on the brink of stardom heading into WrestleMania 30, but after losing to Cena, his momentum stalled. Despite attempts to regain his status, WWE’s booking kept him from reaching the top tier again.
6. Sheamus – Made a Star
Sheamus made a huge impact in 2009 when he shocked the world by defeating Cena for the WWE Championship early in his career. This win secured his place in the main event scene and helped him amass multiple titles over the years.
5. Ryback – Lost Momentum
Ryback gained immense popularity in 2012 but didn’t receive a WWE World Title win during his prime. After turning heel and feuding with Cena for the title, his losses hurt his standing, and he faded from main event relevance.
4. Kevin Owens – Made a Star
Kevin Owens debuted on the main roster by facing Cena and even scored a win at the 2015 Elimination Chamber. Though he eventually lost the feud, Owens showcased strong promo skills and wrestling ability, rising quickly to prominence.
3. Umaga – Lost Momentum
Umaga was pushed as a dominant monster heel and a major threat to Cena’s reign. Despite their intense matches, his loss to Cena led to a drop to midcard status, and he never regained main event-level push.
2. CM Punk – Made a Star
Already a former world champion, CM Punk’s feud with Cena elevated him to iconic status. Their rivalry showcased Punk’s mic skills and wrestling talent, firmly establishing him as a top WWE draw.
1. Wade Barrett – Lost Momentum
Barrett led the Nexus faction and targeted Cena in 2010 but was easily defeated. This feud stalled Barrett’s rise, and he never reached his full main event potential in WWE.
Fan Take: This analysis reveals how crucial Cena’s role has been not just as a champion but as a career-defining opponent for many wrestlers. For WWE fans, these stories highlight how booking decisions around one star can shape the future of others, influencing the sport’s evolving landscape.
