John Cena Reveals Talent Frustration Over Controversial WWE Decision

John Cena believes WWE has evolved significantly over the years, and that evolution is one of the main reasons he decided to retire.

Speaking with O’Shea Jackson Jr. and DJ Jefferson on No Contest Wrestling, Cena revealed that he felt his “institutional knowledge” of WWE had become “obsolete.” Once he realized this, he knew it was time for him to step away from in-ring competition.

John Cena also pointed out how WWE has shifted from being primarily a live-event business to functioning more as a media company. He explained that many talents prefer live events and are frustrated that WWE does not run more non-televised shows.

In recent years, WWE has significantly reduced its schedule of non-televised live events. Under TKO Group Holdings, WWE has focused on maximizing profits by cutting low-margin or marginally profitable untelevised events. This strategic shift is aimed at making televised shows and Premium Live Events feel more special and higher in value.

John Cena On WWE Not Running

According to John Cena, talents enjoy live events because they are allowed to make mistakes, be themselves, learn in real time, and grow: something that is not possible on televised programming.

We’re not a live event business anymore. We’re a media company, and I talk with performers all the time. They’re like, “I wish there were more house shows, live events.” And I tell them like, “But there’s not.”

Yeah, but how shows are where we are able to try and fail? I’ve been watching house shows, live events for 23 years. Watch every match, open or close, always. And I don’t watch those matches because it’s tradition.

John Cena further revealed that he himself is a big supporter of live events. He noted that he has consistently watched house shows and live events for the past 23 years, not simply out of tradition, but because it helps him analyze the audience and understand what works and connects with fans.

He added that this process allows him to give real-time advice to younger talent.

I watch those matches to analyze the audience to find out what works, what doesn’t, what’s been done before, so I don’t repeat anything. If a performer has some electricity and they don’t necessarily know how to harness it, and they come to me for guidance, I can give them real-time advice. (From 53:17)

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