John Cena’s final WWE match wasn’t just a shock to fans—it left the locker room with mixed feelings as well.

After Cena tapped out to GUNTHER at Saturday Night’s Main Event, the live crowd erupted in anger. Boos echoed through Capital One Arena and chants of “bulls*** filled the air. But the reaction behind the scenes was a bit more complicated.

According to Fightful Select, WWE talent had split opinions about the way Cena’s legendary career came to an end. While most people in creative and on the booking team supported the decision, not everyone in the locker room was on the same page.

“There were mixed opinions backstage regarding the finish of John Cena’s final match, though most on the creative and booking side supported it.”

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The report added there was “no indication of any talent being upset about the finish,” though it’s clear some wrestlers would’ve preferred a more triumphant ending for John Cena.

“Several talents said they would have liked to see Cena win, but understood the decision to have GUNTHER go over and how it fit into plans moving forward.”

Meanwhile, Triple H didn’t flinch when asked about the crowd backlash. Speaking at the post-show press conference, he stood behind the booking and praised Cena for always doing what’s best for business.

“There are time-honored traditions in our business — and there are ways you handle your business. John has said the right thing his entire career — that it’s about leaving this place better than you found it.”

Triple H also said Cena had a consistent mindset about passing the torch and saw this final match as a way to build the future.

“He will go in the ring and make somebody on his way out. That’s what John does and has always done.”

Whether you agree or not, WWE clearly made a decision that aligned with tradition—have the legend go out putting someone else over. And GUNTHER? He didn’t just get the win—he now carries the torch.

Do you agree with how WWE ended John Cena’s career? Should he have gone out on top, or was tapping to GUNTHER the right way to pass the torch? Drop your thoughts in the comments below—we want to hear from you.

Tags: John Cena

Subhojeet Mukherjee has covered pro wrestling for over 20 years, delivering trusted news and backstage updates to fans around the world.

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