10 Major WWE Matches That Changed At The Last Second

6. John Cena vs. Randy Orton €“ No Mercy 2007

As hard as it is to believe, there was a time when John Cena versus Randy Orton was a fresh match-up. Both men's careers had run parallel since their debuts, and the clash between the two at SummerSlam 2007 would determine who would carry WWE into the future. Cena won, but when Orton punted John Cena, Sr. in the head after the match, a rematch was assured. At Unforgiven, Orton won via DQ, so it was one more time for all the marbles. Unfortunately, six days before No Mercy, Cena tore his pectoral muscle during a Raw match with Mr. Kennedy. WWE announced beforehand that Cena wouldn't be able to compete, so they did right by their fans €“ they also guaranteed a new WWE Champion to assure interest. As the Pay-Per-View opened, Vince McMahon stripped a non-present Cena of the title (ending his reign at an impressive 380 days) and awarded it to Randy Orton via forfeit. Triple H immediately challenged Orton, then defeated him to become WWE Champion. McMahon wasn't through, though €“ he declared that "The Game's" upcoming match against Umaga would still take place, and it would now be for the championship. When HHH retained, McMahon made one final match for him €“ he would defend the title against Orton in a Last Man Standing bout. In the show's main event, Orton defeated Triple H to become WWE Champion for the second time that night. Cena's absence may have been a disappointment, but WWE made the best of a bad situation with a unique show.