Updates On John Cena & Nikki Bella's Upcoming WWE Hiatus
WWE's power set for a lengthy break.
There's an unwritten rule in pro wrestling that says if you're going to go out, at least do it in style. That's exactly what John Cena and Nikki Bella did following their WrestleMania 33 performance.
It seems that after their victory over The Miz and Maryse and subsequent in-ring engagement, the Total Divas power couple will now be taking some time off as expected.
On top of several big films coming out - and requiring promotion work - Cena has landed one of the starring roles in the Universal Pictures comedy The Pact, which is tentatively scheduled to film from April 19th through June 9th.
Given his schedule, it shouldn't come as too much of a surprise that the "Tickets & Events" section of WWE.com reveals that the 16-time world champion isn't advertised until around SummerSlam.
Cena's absence can't be understated, as once he returned from his previous hiatus of filming American Grit, ticket sales for the blue brand rose considerably for both televised programs and live events, and even outsold Raw at times.
So how do they cope? Well, SmackDown has just added Shinsuke Nakamura and there are rumors they'll be picking up another big name to help carry the load during next week's superstar shakeup until Big Match John can make his return.
As far as Nikki Bella goes, she was medically cleared for the match at WrestleMania, but she's now taking time off to further rehabilitate her nagging neck injury. There has been talk of her retiring for some time, but this sounds like it may just be temporary time-off to allow her body to recuperate. "Fearless" Nikki tweeted the following regarding her upcoming absence:
This isn't goodbye, just need time to heal. When the day is right I will be back and hopefully then.... BRIE MODE will be ACTIVATED!... pic.twitter.com/3OB6QjUnvU
— Nikki & Brie (@BellaTwins) April 4, 2017
Can't wait for the day I can lace up my kicks throw on my jersey put on my SnapBack & come back home. Until then..Stay Fearless Bella Army!
— Nikki & Brie (@BellaTwins) April 4, 2017
Can SmackDown survive Cena's absence? Share your thoughts below in the comments thread.