How Are WWE Fans Reacting to Brock Lesnar vs. John Cena at Wrestlepalooza?

Wrestlepalooza marked a monumental occasion for WWE as it showcased the company's debut on ESPN, a major sports network. The event featured a highly anticipated card including AJ Lee's in-ring return and a championship match between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre. However, the evening's opener saw John Cena face off against Brock Lesnar, resulting in a decisive victory for Lesnar that left many fans disappointed.

Last updated: 27 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways from Wrestlepalooza

• WWE's first show on ESPN drew significant attention from fans and sports networks.
• AJ Lee made her return to the ring after a decade, teaming with CM Punk.
• Brock Lesnar delivered a dominating performance against John Cena in what may be Cena's last match.
• Fans expressed their disappointment over the outcome of Cena vs. Lesnar, questioning the narrative direction of Cena's farewell tour.
• Wrestlepalooza featured high-profile matches, including Cody Rhodes defending his championship.

Wrestlepalooza: A New Era for WWE

As WWE ventured into new territory with Wrestlepalooza, the event aimed to capture a wider audience by broadcasting on ESPN. This move is seen as a strategic effort to increase the visibility and reach of professional wrestling. The event was not only a platform for thrilling matches but also served to bridge the gap between mainstream sports and wrestling entertainment.

The Card: Excitement and Anticipation

Wrestlepalooza boasted a stacked card that featured some of the most prominent names in WWE history. The highlight was undoubtedly AJ Lee’s return to the ring, having stepped away for nearly ten years. Fans were eager to see her team up with her husband, CM Punk, against the formidable duo of Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch, both of whom have made significant impacts in wrestling over the years.

Headlining Match: Cody Rhodes vs. Drew McIntyre

The main event featured Cody Rhodes defending his Undisputed WWE Championship against Drew McIntyre. This match carried significant stakes, as both wrestlers are known for their in-ring prowess and popularity among fans. The storyline surrounding their rivalry added further intrigue, making it one of the most anticipated matches of the night.

The Opener: John Cena vs. Brock Lesnar

The evening kicked off with a highly charged match between John Cena and Brock Lesnar. This match was particularly significant as it was touted as Cena's last encounter with Lesnar, marking the conclusion of a storied rivalry. Cena, a 17-time world champion, had a legacy that included numerous memorable matches against Lesnar, making this encounter a must-see for fans.

The Match Breakdown

As the match began, it was evident that Lesnar was in control. Cena, however, managed to showcase his resilience with several offensive moves, including his signature Attitude Adjustments. Despite Cena’s efforts, Lesnar quickly regained dominance, delivering six F-5s, reminiscent of their past encounters, particularly their infamous match at SummerSlam 2014.

The Emotional Farewell

Before the match commenced, Cena made a grand entrance that resonated with fans, particularly the younger audience. He was accompanied by a group of children, creating a sentimental atmosphere for what was expected to be a memorable farewell. Paul Heyman, Lesnar’s former advocate, also added to the drama with a riveting introduction for The Beast.

Fan Reactions: Disappointment and Discontent

As the match concluded with Lesnar's decisive victory, reactions from fans were immediate and vocal. Many expressed their dissatisfaction over the handling of Cena's farewell match. Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton was among those who shared their displeasure, while the younger fans in attendance were visibly upset by the outcome.

The Future of Cena's Farewell Tour

With this match marking a critical point in Cena's retirement tour, many fans are left wondering how WWE will proceed. The overwhelming sentiment is that the narrative arc for Cena's farewell has been compromised, especially given the decisive nature of Lesnar's victory. Some hope this will be the last appearance for Lesnar in this context, allowing Cena a more fitting conclusion to his storied career.

What’s Next for WWE?

As Wrestlepalooza comes to a close, WWE is at a crossroads. The success of their debut on ESPN could lead to more high-profile events in the future, but fan reactions will likely influence their storytelling choices moving forward. The professional wrestling landscape continues to evolve, and WWE must listen to its audience to maintain its relevance and popularity.

FAQs

What was the significance of Wrestlepalooza for WWE?

Wrestlepalooza was significant as it marked WWE's first-ever show on ESPN, showcasing the company's ambition to reach a broader audience and elevate its profile in mainstream sports.

Who made a surprise return at Wrestlepalooza?

AJ Lee made her in-ring return after a decade at Wrestlepalooza, teaming up with her husband, CM Punk, in a highly anticipated match.

How did John Cena's match with Brock Lesnar end?

Brock Lesnar defeated John Cena decisively, delivering multiple F-5s. Fans were disappointed with the outcome, particularly as it was perceived as a poor conclusion to Cena's farewell tour.

What were fans' reactions to Cena's performance?

Fans expressed disappointment over Cena's loss to Lesnar, with many feeling it detracted from the emotional significance of his farewell match.

What are the potential implications for WWE after Wrestlepalooza?

The event's success on ESPN could lead to more collaborations and high-profile matches, but WWE must also address fan feedback to shape its future direction.

As WWE navigates this new chapter, the response from fans will be crucial in shaping the narrative arcs and match outcomes in the months to come. How will WWE reconcile its storytelling with fan expectations? Only time will tell. #Wrestlepalooza #WWE #JohnCena