How Good Was John Cena Actually?
Conclusion
John Cena was the most uneven top star in WWE history. Let’s consider his G.O.A.T. case relative to the competition:
Steve Austin drew more money at his peak, was a vastly superior pro wrestler, was more of a household name, and was significantly less likely to make you embarrassed to be a fan. Cena really only has longevity over Austin. Using the exact same criteria, the Rock has a similarly stronger case than John Cena - depending on how much value one places on longevity. Is a longer and more mixed stint on top really that impressive? Cena starred throughout an era in which obstacles were put in front of his peers, too; moreover, Vince McMahon was more incompetent than ever before. Cena had a clear run at the top spot with no direct wrestling competition, nor many on the roster with creative license to take it from him.
Cena boasted superior range to Hulk Hogan, who wasn’t exactly able to work bloodbaths and bangers alike. Hogan was a more lucrative attraction, and in his defence, didn’t need to deviate from what was such a magic formula. Both Cena and Hogan alienated the same demo of the audience; Hogan timed and performed his heel role to infinitely better effect. Hogan lasted ages on top, but wasn’t undermined by the same overexposure on television. A score draw seems fair, subjective and objective factors considered.
Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels really only have in-ring ability over Cena. The Undertaker is an interesting comparison. Both wrestlers are considered by WWE fans to be all-time greats; equally, to those less passionate about the promotion, both are responsible for as many awful moments and frantic races to turn off the TV. Cena was a bigger draw; he wins narrowly against his most tenured opposition. If Triple H counts, Cena batters him. The way in which Triple H held onto his spot will forever diminish his case.
Cody Rhodes is a new contender for this WWE Mount Rushmore conversation. He’s better in the ring, an enormous draw, and unlike Cena, has led a legitimate boom period. Rhodes needs a few more years to build his case. Randy Savage did the impossible and replaced Hulk Hogan as the top babyface in the late 1980s. Roman Reigns only has that one heel run on his CV - but that run was a monster.
Since John Cena is somewhere in the middle…
8/10
Overall Rating: 7.5/10