The WWE universe has been buzzing with anticipation as the bracket for John Cena’s “Last Time Is Now” tournament continues to take shape. With the legendary superstar set to face the winner in his final match at Saturday Night’s Main Event in Washington, D.C. on December 13, every advancement and twist in the tournament has been under the microscope. Now, one of the most talked-about developments has finally been confirmed: Sheamus’ replacement in the tournament is none other than The Miz.
Sheamus Forced Out Due to Injury
Last week, WWE officially announced that Sheamus would not be able to continue in the tournament after suffering a shoulder injury during his first-round victory over Shinsuke Nakamura. The Irish brawler, who had been a fan-favorite to potentially face Cena in the finale, was medically ruled out of competition, leaving a vacancy in the quarterfinals. WWE teased that a replacement would be revealed soon, sparking speculation across social media and wrestling circles.
The A-Lister Steps In
According to PWInsider, The Miz has been tapped to step into the tournament and take Sheamus’ spot. The seven-time WWE Champion will now face LA Knight in the quarterfinals, a matchup that promises fireworks and high drama. The Miz, known for his charisma, resilience, and ability to elevate any match, is no stranger to high-stakes situations. His inclusion adds another layer of star power to an already stacked field.
Sources close to WWE’s creative team revealed that the decision to bring in The Miz was made after careful consideration. “They wanted someone who could not only fill the void left by Sheamus but also bring a different dynamic to the tournament,” said an insider. “The Miz has the experience, the mic skills, and the ability to connect with fans in a way that makes this match feel even bigger.”
Why The Miz Makes Sense
The Miz’s history with both John Cena and LA Knight adds an extra layer of intrigue to this matchup. His rivalry with Cena dates back over a decade, with their matches often serving as pivotal moments in WWE programming. Meanwhile, his recent run-in with Knight has set the stage for a heated encounter. Bringing The Miz into the tournament not only keeps the competition fierce but also ensures that Cena’s final opponent will be someone with a proven track record of delivering memorable performances.
WWE’s decision to insert The Miz also aligns with their broader strategy of spotlighting established stars while giving younger talent opportunities to shine. With the tournament featuring a mix of veterans and rising stars, The Miz’s presence helps bridge the gap between eras.
Tournament Brackets Update
With The Miz’s entry, the updated quarterfinal brackets are now set:
- Jey Uso vs. Rusev
- The Miz vs. LA Knight
- Penta vs. Finn Balor
- Carmelo Hayes vs. Gunther
The winners of these matches will advance to the semifinals, with the ultimate victor earning the right to face John Cena in his final WWE match. The tournament’s structure ensures that every round is packed with drama, and The Miz’s inclusion only heightens the stakes.
Backstage Reactions
Backstage, The Miz’s addition has been met with enthusiasm. “He’s been waiting for a moment like this,” said a WWE insider. “He’s always talked about wanting to be part of something historic, and this is as historic as it gets. He’s not just stepping in—he’s stepping up.”
LA Knight, meanwhile, has been vocal about his determination to win the tournament. “I’ve been grinding for this moment,” Knight said in a recent interview. “The Miz is a legend, but I’m coming for that spot. I want to be the one to send Cena off.”
What’s Next for The Miz?
For The Miz, this tournament represents more than just a chance to face Cena—it’s an opportunity to cement his legacy. With a career spanning over 15 years, The Miz has consistently proven himself as one of WWE’s most versatile and enduring stars. Whether he wins the tournament or not, his participation ensures that Cena’s final match will be a spectacle worthy of the occasion.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on The Miz and his quarterfinal clash with LA Knight. With the stakes higher than ever, this match could very well be the defining moment of the entire bracket.
Final Thoughts
The revelation of The Miz as Sheamus’ replacement in The Last Time is Now tournament has added a new chapter to John Cena’s farewell story. With a mix of veteran experience and fresh competition, the tournament continues to deliver the drama and excitement that fans have come to expect from WWE’s biggest events. As the countdown to December 13 begins, one thing is certain: Cena’s final match will be a night to remember, and The Miz is ready to make his mark.