The fall of 2007 saw an injury that threatened to alter the course of WWE history forever. After one year of carrying the company as its champion and franchise star, John Cena suffered a pectoral injury that would sideline him for eight months. WWE even confirmed the duration of Cena's absence on its official website. Worry set in across the industry as many questioned what Vince McMahon would do without his captain to steer the ship. At first it looked as though Triple H would step seamlessly into the role but criticisms of the backstage politician ran rampant and interest in The Game as the lead babyface role had proven nonexistent in the past. With Batista drawing more jeers than cheers, and questions about Jeff Hardy's ability to fill that role without any sort of Wellness Policy slip-up proving overwhelming, things were status quo entering the 2008 Royal Rumble. Despite all of the signs pointing to Triple H as the top hero in the company being negative, the King of Kings was the undisputed favorite to leave the historic Madison Square Garden as the winner of the Rumble match. Then it happened. The bell tolled for No. 30 and...John Cena made an epic return to WWE, some four or five months ahead of schedule. The New York fans erupted as the former champion walked the aisle, a smile on his face. For the second consecutive year, the last entrant in the match left with his arm raised. And ironically, the same fans who greeted his unexpected return with open arms, reverted to their anti-Cena hatred the second he delivered the Attitude Adjustment to Triple H that sealed his fate.
Erik Beaston is a freelance pro wrestling writer who likes long walks in the park, dandelions and has not quite figured out that this introduction is not for Match.com. He resides in Parts Unknown, where he hosts weekly cookouts with Kane, The Ultimate Warrior, Papa Shango and The Boogeyman. Be jealous.
