Who REALLY Carried WWE Every Year (1985-2026)
21. 2006 (John Cena)
2006 was the year when John Cena became undeniable as WWE's poster boy.
Realistically, "Big Match John" (as JBL often called him on commentary) was already well on his way in 2005, but he hit the heights in '06. Cena's pay-per-view matches vs. Edge (Royal Rumble), Triple H ('Mania 22), RVD (One Night Stand) and 'TLC' vs. Edge (Unforgiven) were all great watches.
Coming into his own and seizing the chance to be featured, Cena was on top form and clearly relishing the chance to be the main man. He oozed confidence whether wrestling (despite coming chants of "YOU CAN'T WRESTLE" being fired at him sporadically), cutting backstage promos or holding court inside the ring on Raw for 10-15 minutes.
WWE had found their new top guy. It wasn't Brock Lesnar, it wasn't even Randy Orton or Batista. The latter duo were supporting cast members. Fab workers and had top years ahead of them, but maybe a notch below 'Super Cena' in the eyes of management. Just look at the way JC adapted to suit vs. RVD in front of a hardcore ECW audience baying for his blood - that's when you know someone gets it.
Others, like the aforementioned Orton, Batista, Edge and more, had stunning years themselves. Could anyone match what Cena was doing though? Not a chance. Perhaps Van Dam would've been a bigger rival for that crown had he not fallen foul of higher-ups due to a regrettable suspension. Cena was WWE made though, and Rob wasn't.
2006 belonged to the former 'Doctor Of Thuganomics'.