WWE garners severe criticism from fans and stars alike because of poorly conceptualized storylines and declining booking numbers. Especially, ever since Vince McMahon came back from retirement as the Executive Chairman of TKO following a blockbuster UFC merger deal, there have been plenty of negative reactions emerging in the pro wrestling world, putting WWE’s credibility in serious jeopardy. But it seems like the old-aged stars possess the same feeling of goodness regarding the biggest wrestling promotion in the world.

WWE’s perfect ambassador of the Ruthless Aggression era, John Cena recently faced a major setback, receiving a defeat at the hands of 25-year-old Austin Theory at the grandest stage. While the 45-year-old lessened his in-ring appreciation as he devotes himself fully to the rousing Hollywood endeavors in the recent years, it seems like the 16-time world champion still cherishes all the good memories he had with the Stamford-based company during his long storied career.

John Cena heaps praises on WWE for being kind to him

During a recent interview with Andrew Santino, the cenation leader recalled a tough time of his career when WWE almost fired him. But Cena has no hard feelings for that. Instead, he addressed how brilliantly and delicately WWE handled the entire situation back then.

Detailing the incident, Cena noted, “I was about to get fired because I wasn’t doing well. And I was on my final overseas tour in the UK. It was right before Halloween, and they were like, “Oh, you know, I don’t think you’re gonna make it to Christmas. So, whatever. But we’ll bring you this last tour, give you some more money.’ WWE was extremely good about that like, ‘Hey we’re probably not going to do business so let’s get you on as many shows.‘”

While Cena previously told that he doesn’t know how many WWE matches he has left, his bout against Theory doesn’t fit well as a farewell match.

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So it’s not wrong for fans to expect him a bit longer in the squared circle.

What’s next for John Cena?

Where there is still no update regarding Cena’s next move in WWE, there are a few possible directions that make sense for him after a heartbreaking loss at The Show of the Shows. There are certainly many stars on the roster who will be more than interested in facing the former Franchise star in the ring. Some early hints regarding the future storylines also leave an ample chance of speculation.

Last week Raw saw Cena calling out Rhodes and sharing some words with him. Though their verbal exchange wasn’t audible, Rhodes certainly made himself heard loud and clear that he wants to wrestle the 16-time world champion. For many in the wrestling world, it makes perfect sense.

Bobby Lashley and Cena had a long history of rivalry since 2007 and some unfinished business, too. But considering how far he has come over the years and how many stars received a solid defeat in his hands, it wouldn’t be surprising if he will want to face Cena once to put a final end to their long-lived rivalry.

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While there are certainly a few more possible feuds for Cena, it’s safe to say that we have to let things unfold with time since no official confirmation is there yet.