WWE Fans Are Hyped for John Cena's Return to WrestleMania

From Men's Health

John Cena made his long-awaited return to the WWE on Friday night after a seven-month absence. Appearing at the live Friday Night SmackDown event in Boston, Cena humbly reiterated statements he has made previously, namely that he is no longer at the center of the wrestling brand. "WrestleMania should go on without John Cena," he said, saying that the male and female wrestlers on the roster who fight all-year round should be the ones to get the starring spots.

WrestleMania is always a hugely popular event, but with Cena front and center, it was an even bigger ratings hit than usual. Forbes reports that the two-hour show came in at a 0.8% among its central 18-to-49 demographic, up from its usual 0.7%, and that its viewership jumped from 2,490,000 to 2,717,000.

While Cena's presence at the event could be simply dismissed as a cameo from a beloved mainstay, events unfolded which point to further involvement from Cena as 2020 continues. Specifically, Bray Wyatt, the wrestler known as "The Fiend," appeared on stage behind Cena, and pointed to the WrestleMania sign that hangs over the ring: a gauntlet thrown, if ever there was one. Cena appeared to nod, solemnly, hinting that a grudge match between the two men is in the offing.

Cena has spoken multiple times on his future with the WWE, remaining grateful for the opportunities that wrestling presented to him as he pursues the latest phase in his career as one of the biggest (literally) action stars on the planet, even recently joining the unstoppable Fast & Furious franchise. While more of his time is taken up by acting these days, Cena has promised fans that he will always remain involved with the WWE — although he admits that his body can't take as much punishment as it could 20 years ago.

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