The most polarizing champion in WWE history, John Cena is the prototypical babyface. He lives by a credo, is an excellent role model for his young fans and his work with the Make-A-Wish foundation is something every mainstream celebrity should try to replicate. But his cookie cutter persona make him the target of jeers, complaints and criticisms by an internet fan base that demands more of its characters. Smiling, cracking poop jokes and making light of losses that should have adversely affected him were not going to fly with a smarter audience than the ones Hulk Hogan and Bret Hart performed in front of a decade or two earlier. No matter how vile the opposition, fans still greeted Cena with boos. Edge, Kurt Angle, Umaga, JBL, Randy Orton, Big Show and Triple H all did dastardly deeds to WWE's resident good guy but no matter how hard he tried, Cena just could not convince the audience to fully support him. As years have passed and the character has remained the same, the split has grown exponentially. Despite cries for a heel turn, he has stayed true to his character and to those who have supported him over the years. While that is an admirable trait, it has led to many wondering when a fresher, younger star will step up and oppose Cena for the status of "Face of WWE." That time may be coming soon, thanks to the emergence of Roman Reigns, but fans disenfranchised with Cena are likely stuck with him at or near the top of the card for many years to come. Infamy thy name is Cena.
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.
