John Cena’s next WWE rival faces unexpected danger

John Cena’s next WWE showdown might not go as planned because his opponent could be in real trouble. Behind the scenes, talk is heating up that AJ Styles, Cena’s rumored next rival for Crown Jewel, might not even make it to the match.

Reports suggest WWE’s creative direction for Cena’s farewell tour is being reshuffled, and Styles’ position in that plan is shaky. Some insiders mention injury concerns, others point to booking frustrations. Either way, the word is that things aren’t smooth, and WWE may already be looking at a backup plan.

Is AJ Styles still in or out?

WWE initially lined up Cena vs. Styles for Crown Jewel, but newer reports claim that Gunther the current powerhouse of the company could actually be Cena’s true final opponent. The idea would be to give Cena a grand send-off against one of WWE’s most dominant modern champions.

It tracks from a storytelling perspective. Gunther’s physicality, combined with Cena’s legacy, sets up a clash that feels historic old guard versus new era. There’s also talk of a short tournament or rivalry angle that could phase Styles out and elevate Gunther into the final spotlight.

Still, nothing is official. WWE has been known to pivot fast, especially when health or fan response comes into play. AJ Styles could still be part of the larger storyline, perhaps as a setup for Gunther’s involvement. But the whispers are clear the match card for Cena’s farewell run isn’t locked in, and Styles might be the one paying the price.

If all this pans out, Cena’s retirement tour could end in Washington, D.C. later this year with Gunther across the ring not Styles. Until then, fans are holding their breath. Because what was supposed to be one of the most emotional send-offs in WWE history might just turn into a power struggle behind the curtain.