Key Highlights
- John Cena’s final appearance on WWE Raw takes place at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
- Cena’s last match is scheduled for the upcoming Survivor Series in San Diego against Dominik Mysterio.
- The Last Time is Now Tournament continues with matches featuring Rey Mysterio, Sheamus, and Judgment Day members Finn Balor and JD McDonagh.
- Nikki Bella challenges Stephanie Vaquer for the title after reminding her of her impact on the industry.
John Cena’s Final Raw: A Bittersweet Night in New York City
The night was electric as WWE Raw returned to Madison Square Garden, marking John Cena’s final appearance on the red brand. The event was not just about the matches but also a poignant goodbye to one of wrestling’s biggest stars.
Opening Match: Cena vs. Mysterio
Cena made his entrance with the crowd’s applause, thanking New York for making and breaking careers. However, Dominik Mysterio quickly interrupted, demanding his rematch for the Intercontinental Championship. The match was intense, with both Cena and Mysterio trading blows.
In a surprising turn of events, Cena decided to put aside the title bout and instead challenge Mysterio one-on-one on Raw itself.
The crowd roared as Cena faced off against Mysterio in an impromptu match. The match was full of high-flying moves, including a 619 from Sheamus and Rey Mysterio’s Fifteen Knuckles Worth of Shuffle. In the end, Cena pinned JD McDonagh with an Attitude Adjustment to secure his final victory on Raw.
The Last Time is Now Tournament
Despite the title shot being canceled for now, the Last Time is Now Tournament continued with Rey Mysterio facing off against Judgment Day. The trio of Rey Mysterio, Sheamus, and Cena worked together to defeat Finn Balor and JD McDonagh in a thrilling match that left fans on the edge of their seats.
The team effort was evident as Sheamus, Rey Mysterio, and Cena put on an impressive show, showcasing their wrestling skills. The match concluded with a triple Attitude Adjustment, sealing victory for the babyfaces over Judgment Day.
Backstage Drama: Bella vs. Vaquer
The backstage segment was filled with drama as Nikki Bella challenged Stephanie Vaquer for the title. Bella’s return to the ring marked a significant moment in WWE history, reminding everyone of her impact on the industry. The match was intense, with Bella delivering powerful moves and ultimately defeating Vaquer to claim the championship.
Implications for WWE’s Future
Cena’s final Raw is not just a farewell but a testament to his enduring legacy in professional wrestling. His decision to focus on the crowd rather than the title shot showcased his maturity as a performer and respected figure within the industry. The match against Mysterio highlighted the ongoing competitiveness and rivalry among top stars.
The continuation of the Last Time is Now Tournament signals WWE’s commitment to maintaining high-stakes competition, even in the face of major events like Cena’s farewell. Meanwhile, the title change between Bella and Vaquer sets the stage for new storylines and rivalries within the company.
Conclusion
The night at Madison Square Garden was a memorable one, filled with intense matches, emotional moments, and significant plot developments. As Cena steps away from Raw, fans are left to reflect on his incredible career and the impact he has had on professional wrestling. The future of WWE looks promising as it continues to evolve and innovate.
