During the recent Saturday Night’s Main Event at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., WWE faced significant backlash from fans, particularly directed towards wrestler Gunther and WWE Chief Content Officer Paul Levesque, known as Triple H. The event marked the final match of legendary wrestler John Cena, who lost to Gunther in a controversial finish that left many fans displeased.
John Cena, a record-setting 17-time World Champion, ended his illustrious career by tapping out in a manner that seemed out of character for his persona, famously known for the motto “Never Give Up.” This unexpected conclusion drew an immediate and negative reaction from the audience, which shifted from shocked silence to loud boos and chants of “Bulls**t.” Fans expected a more heroic farewell for the wrestling icon, leading to a palpable sense of disappointment in the venue.
Fan Reactions and Backlash
The discontent did not stop with Cena’s match. Paul Levesque was also met with significant jeers during a post-match celebration honoring Cena’s legacy. Fans chanted “You F**ked Up!” and “We Want Vince!” in reference to former WWE Chairman Vince McMahon, indicating their frustration with the current management’s decisions.
Following the event, footage emerged showing Gunther being escorted from the arena while surrounded by fans who shouted “F**k You, Gunther!” Despite the hostility, the Austrian wrestler remained unfazed, calmly making his way to his bus without engaging with the crowd.
The choice to have John Cena submit in his final match has divided wrestling fans. Some view it as a bold narrative decision, while others see it as a misstep that undermined Cena’s storied career. As the wrestling community continues to debate the implications of this match, Gunther’s victory positions him as a significant competitor in the coming years.
With this win at the Saturday Night’s Main Event, alongside having previously retired Bill Goldberg earlier in the year, Gunther is set to make a substantial impact in the wrestling scene in 2026. The reactions from fans and the outcomes of these matches could shape his trajectory as a prominent figure in WWE.
