John Cena's Epic 2007 Run On Raw: A Look Back

Hey wrestling fans! Let's take a trip down memory lane and relive John Cena's electrifying run on Raw in 2007. This was a year packed with unforgettable moments, intense rivalries, and Cena cementing his place as one of the top guys in WWE. Whether you're a die-hard Cena fan or just love a good dose of wrestling nostalgia, buckle up because we're diving deep into this iconic year.

Cena's Championship Reign and Top Rivalries

Okay, so 2007 kicked off with John Cena still holding the WWE Championship, a title he'd won the previous year. His run as champ was marked by a series of high-profile feuds, each more exciting than the last. One of the earliest challenges came from Umaga, a monstrous Samoan powerhouse managed by Armando Alejandro Estrada. These two had a brutal Last Man Standing match at the Royal Rumble in January, which Cena barely managed to win, retaining his title. The intensity and physicality of this match really set the tone for Cena's year – he wasn't going to have an easy time holding onto that championship.

Then came the WrestleMania 23 showdown with Shawn Michaels. This was a dream match for many fans, pitting two of the biggest stars in WWE history against each other. The build-up was fantastic, with Michaels turning heel and the two engaging in some heated confrontations. The match itself was a classic, a back-and-forth battle that showcased both Cena's power and Michaels' technical prowess. Cena ultimately won, but the rivalry didn't end there. They continued to feud in the following weeks, trading wins and losses. These two Superstars had incredible chemistry together and their matches were always worth watching. This period highlighted Cena's ability to work with different styles of opponents, adapting his approach to create compelling stories in the ring.

Another major rivalry during Cena's 2007 run was against The Great Khali. Khali, with his massive size and intimidating presence, presented a unique challenge for Cena. Their matches were built around Khali's power and Cena's resilience. While these matches might not be remembered as technical masterpieces, they were certainly memorable for the sheer spectacle of it all. Cena had to dig deep and find new ways to overcome Khali's size advantage, often relying on his speed and agility to outmaneuver the giant. This further solidified Cena's reputation as a fighter who never gave up, no matter the odds.

These early feuds and championship defenses were crucial in establishing the storyline for Cena in 2007. Each rivalry tested his limits, forcing him to evolve and adapt. It was a year where he faced a diverse range of opponents, each with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Through it all, Cena remained the top guy, proving his ability to overcome any obstacle and maintain his position at the top of the WWE food chain.

The Injury and End of the Championship Reign

Now, here's where things took a dramatic turn. In October 2007, during a match against Mr. Kennedy, John Cena suffered a torn pectoral muscle. Ouch! This wasn't just a minor setback; it was a serious injury that required surgery and a significant amount of time off. The WWE Universe was shocked. Cena, the seemingly unstoppable force, was suddenly sidelined. This injury abruptly ended his WWE Championship reign, forcing him to vacate the title.

The timing of the injury was particularly unfortunate. Cena was scheduled to face Randy Orton at No Mercy in a Last Man Standing match. This was a highly anticipated clash, and the injury threw everything into chaos. The WWE had to scramble to adjust their plans, and Orton ended up winning the vacant title that night. The sudden end to Cena's reign left a void in the main event scene, and it was clear that his absence would be felt.

The injury also had a major impact on Cena's career trajectory. He was forced to take several months off to recover, missing key events like Survivor Series and the Royal Rumble. This was the first major injury of Cena's career, and it served as a stark reminder of the physical toll that professional wrestling can take on the body. However, it also allowed Cena to showcase his resilience and determination. He worked hard to rehab his injury, and he was determined to come back stronger than ever.

The circumstances surrounding the injury and the relinquishing of the title added a layer of drama to Cena's 2007 storyline. It wasn't just about winning and losing; it was about overcoming adversity and fighting to return to the top. This period highlighted Cena's dedication to the sport and his commitment to his fans. It also set the stage for his eventual return, which would be one of the most memorable moments of his career.

The Unexpected Return and Feud with Randy Orton

Okay, get this. John Cena made a shocking return at the Royal Rumble in January 2008 – way ahead of schedule! Doctors had predicted he'd be out for much longer, but Cena being Cena, he defied expectations. The crowd went absolutely nuts when his music hit, and he entered the Rumble match as the 30th entrant. Talk about a surprise!

Cena's return at the Royal Rumble was nothing short of epic. The energy in Madison Square Garden was electric as he made his way to the ring. He quickly eliminated several competitors and went on to win the match, earning himself a WWE Championship opportunity at WrestleMania 24. This was a huge moment for Cena and his fans, proving that he was back and ready to reclaim his spot at the top. The victory was a testament to his hard work and determination during his recovery, and it set the stage for a renewed rivalry with Randy Orton.

Following his Royal Rumble win, Cena immediately set his sights on Randy Orton, who was then the WWE Champion. The rivalry between Cena and Orton intensified in the weeks leading up to WrestleMania 24. They engaged in several heated confrontations, both in the ring and on the microphone. Orton, known for his cunning and ruthless tactics, tried to get inside Cena's head, but Cena remained focused on his goal of winning back the championship.

The match at WrestleMania 24 was a hard-fought battle. Cena and Orton went back and forth, each trying to gain the upper hand. Orton ultimately retained his title, but the rivalry was far from over. They continued to feud throughout the spring of 2008, trading wins and losses. Their matches were always physical and intense, and they brought out the best in each other. This rivalry was a defining part of both Cena's and Orton's careers, and it helped to solidify their status as two of the biggest stars in WWE history.

The feud with Orton wasn't just about the WWE Championship; it was about respect and dominance. Both men wanted to prove that they were the top guy in WWE, and they were willing to do whatever it took to achieve that goal. The rivalry was filled with personal animosity, and the matches often spilled outside the ring, adding to the drama and excitement. This period highlighted Cena's ability to maintain his intensity and focus, even in the face of adversity. It also showcased his willingness to put his body on the line for the sake of the fans and the sport.

Why 2007 Was a Pivotal Year for Cena

So, what makes John Cena's 2007 run so special? It wasn't just about the championships or the wins and losses. It was about the journey, the challenges he faced, and how he overcame them. This year showcased Cena's resilience, his dedication to his craft, and his ability to connect with the audience on a deeper level. The injury, while unfortunate, humanized Cena and made him even more relatable to his fans.

2007 was a pivotal year for Cena because it demonstrated his ability to adapt and evolve as a performer. He faced a diverse range of opponents, each with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. He had to adjust his style and approach to each match, proving his versatility and adaptability. This year also showcased his ability to tell compelling stories in the ring, drawing the audience in and keeping them invested in his journey.

Moreover, 2007 solidified Cena's status as a top draw for WWE. His matches consistently drew high ratings, and his merchandise sales were through the roof. He was a major reason why people were tuning in to Raw each week, and he helped to drive the company's success. This year proved that Cena was not just a flash in the pan; he was a legitimate superstar who had staying power.

In conclusion, John Cena's 2007 run on Raw was a rollercoaster ride of highs and lows. It was a year filled with memorable moments, intense rivalries, and unexpected twists and turns. It was a year that tested Cena's limits and forced him to grow as a performer. And it was a year that cemented his legacy as one of the greatest WWE Superstars of all time. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the world of wrestling, Cena's 2007 run is definitely worth checking out. You won't be disappointed!