Why WWE didn't book John Cena’s farewell match against Randy Orton?

Photo Credit : Twitter

John Cena vs Randy Orton feud already concluded

Cena and Orton had their "last time ever" singles match earlier in the retirement tour at Backlash 2025. Photo Credit : Source: X

Focus on future star

WWE's priority is the traditional "passing the torch" moment to a rising, dominant star, which is Gunther. Photo Credit : X

Randy Orton doesn't need the win

Randy Orton is already an established, legendary multi-time World Champion; a win over Cena wouldn't significantly boost his status. Photo Credit : Source: Google

Gunther's "Legend Killer" Arc:

Gunther winning allows WWE to build a major storyline where he becomes the new "Legend Killer," having already retired Goldberg earlier in the year.

Tournament Winner: Gunther earned the spot by winning the 16-man "Last Time is Now Tournament," providing a credible narrative reason for the match. Photo Credit : X

Cena vs. Gunther is a fresh, first-time-ever dream match, avoiding the fatigue of the long-running Cena vs. Orton rivalry. Photo Credit : X

John Cena's farewell against Gunther signals the "passing of the torch," but his legacy remains intrinsically tied to his defining, years-long rivalry with Randy Orton.

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