John Cena has revealed that he personally pitched the format for his final night in WWE to Triple H, specifically requesting that the event showcase the future of the company rather than focusing solely on his past. Speaking on The Bill Simmons Podcast, Cena disclosed that he advised against a dedicated “tribute show” for his retirement.
Rejecting A Tribute Show
Cena explained that he felt a traditional tribute show would be difficult to execute correctly. He told WWE Chief Content Officer Triple H that such a format often fails to strike the right balance for the audience.
“I called Triple H and I said ‘I have an idea, you’ll know how to do this because I don’t know how to write Television. But I think if we do a tribute show. 1 of 2 things are gonna happen. It’s either gonna be too much or too little. Which means it’s not gonna be good,” Cena said. “Why don’t we take SNME, everyone knows it’s John Cena’s last match. The video packages you wanna trickle in, no problem. Then we go to the match, have the match, that’s the night.”
Pitching An NXT Showcase
Instead of filling the card with nostalgia, Cena proposed using the attention surrounding his final match to elevate the next generation of superstars. He suggested featuring NXT talent in exhibition matches against established main roster stars.
“But beforehand, on a night I know people are gonna be tuning in, sold out, and the last piece of relevant energy I can get an audience member to tune in to. Show the future of your business, have top name WWE Superstars, CM Punk, Charlotte Flair, you put it together however you want, have them have non-canon exhibition matches with the future of the business,” Cena stated.
Giving ‘Kids’ The Bright Lights
Cena’s vision involves giving developmental talent a taste of a major stadium atmosphere without the pressure of storylines. He believes this experience is invaluable for the growth of the roster.
“Bring kids up from NXT, get ’em in a building with real noise. Real energy. Let em get under the bright lights. Maybe, just maybe, like ‘I wanna be here’. And they get to wrestle people with experience, wisdo,m and in non-canon, exhibition matches with nothing on the line. It’s a chance to hear the music of your favourite Superstars against somebody you have no idea,” Cena explained.
Triple H’s Approval
According to Cena, Triple H was immediately receptive to the concept. While the specific matchups have not yet been announced, Cena confirmed that the company intends to move forward with the idea for Saturday Night’s Main Event.
“And he said that was a great idea. They’re gonna do it. I have no clue what the plan is, but I know that’s how I wanna go out,” Cena said. The event is scheduled for December 13 in Washington, D.C.
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article please credit The Bill Simmons Podcast with a h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription. You can listen to the full interview on The Ringer podcast network.
