Backstage reports reveal mixed opinions within WWE regarding John Cena’s final opponent, Gunther, despite the match being built up on WWE Raw and Monday Night Raw. While Gunther’s wrestling skills match Cena’s legacy, some creative members feel the choice lacks unpredictability compared to other contenders like LA Knight. The ongoing “Last Time Is Now” tournament, featured across WWE Raw and SmackDown, sets up the final between Gunther and LA Knight, which will play a significant role in Cena’s farewell narrative on Raw on Netflix. Additionally, Jacob Fatu is rumored to return soon, and MVP has spoken about protecting Bobby Lashley, highlighting developing storylines. Outside WWE, TNA is close to securing a new TV deal with AMC, signaling growth in alternative wrestling promotions. These developments mark an active period as WWE prepares for WrestleMania 42 while fans remain engaged with WWE Raw, Monday Night Raw, and Raw on Netflix following the fallout from WWE Survivor Series 2025.
As WWE continues its post-Survivor Series 2025 momentum heading into the final stretch of 2025, backstage reports have emerged casting doubt over what many thought would be a slam-dunk finale to John Cena’s illustrious career. The buzz around the industry shows that opinions inside WWE are mixed regarding Cena’s final opponent—with Gunther being the selected challenger, yet a significant portion of WWE backstage is reportedly less than thrilled with the booking.
John Cena vs. Gunther: Controversy and Backstage Sentiment
Despite WWE Raw and Monday Night Raw building toward a blockbuster showdown at Saturday Night’s Main Event in Cena's hometown of Washington D.C., insider sources reveal unease about Gunther’s positioning as Cena’s final opponent. While the decision makes sense from a wrestling quality standpoint—Gunther’s in-ring ability aligns with Cena’s legacy—the creative department and some backstage factions are skeptical about the lack of unpredictability and star power compared to other options like LA Knight.The “Last Time Is Now” tournament seen on both WWE Raw and SmackDown incrementally narrowed contenders, eliminating major players like Jay Uso and Solo Sikoa in the semifinals, paving the way for Gunther versus LA Knight in the final. The outcome will have massive implications for Cena’s farewell tour narrative arc and will be featured prominently on Raw on Netflix, giving fans exclusive insight and expanded content surrounding Cena’s last run.
Rising Stars and Returns Impacting WWE Programming
Backstage rumors also suggest a major return on the horizon—Jacob Fatu, after a lengthy absence due to dental surgery, is reportedly ready to rejoin WWE programming imminently. His potential reintroduction is eagerly awaited by fans and promises to inject fresh energy into SmackDown and other WWE content streams.Another backstage highlight includes MVP publicly addressing the need to “protect” Bobby Lashley, acknowledging Lashley’s generally kind demeanor contrasted with his immense physical capabilities. This dynamic adds a layer of storytelling potential for Lashley’s continued run both on WWE Raw and possibly Raw on Netflix’s digital extensions, where character depth is increasingly explored.
TNA’s New TV Deal: Broadening Wrestling Horizons
Adding to the wrestling landscape, TNA is reportedly on the verge of securing a major new TV deal with AMC, a network known for producing iconic shows like Breaking Bad and The Walking Dead. This development signifies a growing alternative wrestling brand that could provide healthy competition and opportunity for talent development outside WWE and AEW. Fans of wrestling worldwide will keep a close eye on how this deal unfolds early in 2026, potentially bringing new content to streaming platforms and expanding wrestling’s reach.Reflections on WWE’s Current Creative Climate
The backstage chatter about Cena’s final match reflects broader conversations around WWE’s booking practices and creative direction after WWE Survivor Series 2025. While the company has retained its status as the premier wrestling brand, debates over storylines and talent pushes continue to fan passionate discussions online and at live events.Regardless of internal debates, the global audience remains engaged, tuning in weekly to WWE Raw, Monday Night Raw, and its streaming counterpart Raw on Netflix to follow these evolving narratives. The next few months promise pivotal moments as WWE builds toward WrestleMania 42, where Cena's career is expected to culminate with a memorable farewell match.
