3 Reasons why John Cena is reportedly not headlining WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event XLII

John Cena
John Cena's last time in a WWE ring is this weekend. (Image Credit: WWE.com).

A recent report from WrestleOps claims that as of Wednesday, WWE is remaining with the fact that John Cena's match with Gunther will not be headlining Saturday Night's Main Event XLII.

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Due to the magnitude of the moment, the decision not to have the legendary star close a show dedicated to his final match is mind-boggling.

The 17-time champ could have wanted it that way, but even that doesn't change the strange booking decision. Cena may not be closing Saturday Night's Main Event XLII for the next three reasons.


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#3. Proper time for the post-match celebration

One big issue WWE had with Goldberg's retirement match with Gunther in July was the post-match festivities. Despite losing to The Ring General, the former WCW Champion closed the show, surrounded by friends and family.

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It took place in Atlanta, Georgia, so that they could attend. Due to timing issues, however, Goldberg's final message was cut short as NBC cut to the next show.

Cena is a 17-time champion and was given an entire year of fanfare leading up to his final match. Having him go on first allows for every word to be recorded and every special guest to be featured.


#2. Focusing on the future of WWE

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The main reason for the Last Time is Now Tournament and matches booked for Saturday Night's Main Event involve the future.

Cena claimed he wanted to pay forward the success he's had to a WWE star who represents the future of the industry. While Gunther is more of a star of the present, the rest of the bouts feature NXT stars facing main-roster competitors.

Having Cena wrestle first allows those matches to get a focus as the show progresses. It's the reason why NXT stars were included instead of completely utilizing main-roster talent.

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#1. A big angle is planned with Cody Rhodes and Oba Femi

Regardless of whether Cena is still sticking around a bit after Saturday Night's Main Event, he should be closing the show with Gunther. WWE made a massive deal of his final year.

He won a 17th title and also fulfilled his Grand Slam status by winning the Intercontinental Championship. Bookers may be thinking beyond his final match as the Royal Rumble is next month.

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Since he isn't closing the show at Saturday Night's Main Event, Cody Rhodes versus Oba Femi probably will. Officials could be planning a huge angle involving a return, heel turn, or attack.

Randy Orton could show up and turn on Rhodes, or Drew McIntyre could blindside the Undisputed WWE Champion. Fans could also find out the identity of who's been stomping people to help the Vision.

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Edited by Matthew Serocki
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