The landscape of WWE’s “The Last Time Is Now” tournament has dramatically shifted as The Miz is confirmed to replace the injured Sheamus in the high-stakes bracket, putting one of WWE’s most decorated superstars back in the spotlight for a chance to face John Cena in his final match.
Sheamus Withdraws Due to Injury
Sheamus, a favorite among fans and one of Cena’s most storied rivals, was forced to withdraw from the tournament after sustaining a shoulder injury. WWE announced that Sheamus, despite advancing past Shinsuke Nakamura in the first round, was no longer medically cleared to compete, leaving a critical vacancy in the quarterfinals[2][5][6][9]. The Celtic Warrior’s exit came as a blow to both the WWE Universe and to the tournament’s narrative, as many hoped for a dramatic showdown between Sheamus and Cena—rekindling their rich history that dates back to the Irishman’s WWE Championship victory over Cena in 2009[4].
Tournament Drama: Who Would Replace Sheamus?
Speculation quickly swirled regarding who would fill Sheamus’ spot, with names ranging from NXT standouts to established veterans and even returning legends[2]. WWE officials Nick Aldis and Adam Pearce were reportedly tasked with selecting a suitable replacement, keeping fans in suspense as the remaining quarterfinalists prepared for their next challenge[1].
According to sources close to WWE creative, the company considered several options for the vacant spot, including Damian Priest, Shinsuke Nakamura, and even surprise entrants like Joe Hendry, who has recently garnered attention in NXT[2]. However, the decision ultimately favored a familiar face with a long-standing connection to John Cena.
The Miz: The A-Lister Gets Another Shot
The Miz, known as “The A-Lister,” has officially been chosen as Sheamus’ replacement in “The Last Time Is Now” tournament. The announcement, which broke shortly before this week’s SmackDown, has instantly injected new intrigue into the tournament bracket.
The Miz is no stranger to high-pressure situations or to John Cena himself. The two have a long, intertwined history, most famously headlining WrestleMania XXVII with The Miz defending (and retaining) the WWE Championship against Cena in the main event. With this opportunity, Miz looks to rewrite his legacy and potentially be the one to send Cena into retirement.
Backstage Reaction: High Stakes, Higher Emotions
Backstage, the mood is one of both surprise and excitement. A WWE insider commented, “There was a real sense of urgency to find the right fit. The Miz brings a level of star power and history with Cena that makes this quarterfinal must-see. He’s always thrived in the spotlight, and this is another chance to prove he belongs in the conversation of all-time greats.”
One SmackDown producer, who asked to remain anonymous, revealed, “Miz has been campaigning for bigger opportunities and made it clear he wanted another shot at Cena before he hangs up his boots. When the call came, he was ready to go—no hesitation. You could see the fire in his eyes.”
How The Miz’s Entry Changes the Bracket
The Miz’s addition shakes up the tournament field, which also includes top names like LA Knight, Gunther, Solo Sikoa, Jey Uso, Carmelo Hayes, and Penta[7][10]. As the tournament inches closer to its finale at WWE’s Saturday Night’s Main Event in Washington, D.C., every match is now tinged with the possibility of a Cena-Miz clash—one that would bring their rivalry full circle.
Here’s a look at the updated quarterfinals lineup:
- LA Knight vs. Gunther
- Carmelo Hayes vs. Penta
- Solo Sikoa vs. Jey Uso
- The Miz (replacing Sheamus) vs. Rusev
Each matchup carries its own intrigue, but The Miz’s involvement has arguably elevated the stakes for the entire tournament.
The Miz’s WWE Resume: More Than Meets the Eye
With a WWE career spanning nearly two decades, The Miz is a multi-time Intercontinental Champion, former WWE Champion, and a Grand Slam Champion. He’s known for his sharp mic skills, in-ring cunning, and a knack for capitalizing on opportunity—traits that could serve him well against the tournament’s elite.
The A-Lister has made no secret of his desire to cement his legacy, particularly after being overlooked during much of the past year’s title chase. This tournament could be his golden ticket not just to the main event, but to etching his name alongside Cena’s on the grandest stage.
What This Means for John Cena’s Farewell
The entire premise of “The Last Time Is Now” tournament is to determine who will face John Cena in his career’s final match—a moment WWE is billing as one of the biggest sendoffs in company history. The addition of The Miz as a possible opponent adds a compelling narrative: two of WWE’s most enduring personalities, both with something to prove, potentially colliding for the last time.
A source close to Cena’s camp stated, “John has always respected what Miz brings to the table. They may have different philosophies, but the chemistry is undeniable. If Miz makes it to the final, you can bet Cena’s going to bring his absolute best.”
What’s Next: Tournament Heats Up on SmackDown
WWE has officially confirmed that The Miz will step into the quarterfinals on the next episode of SmackDown, where he will face Rusev in what promises to be a hard-fought contest[7]. With the rest of the tournament bracket now set, anticipation is building for who will ultimately emerge as Cena’s last opponent.
As the WWE Universe debates the implications of this change, one thing is certain: The Miz has a unique opportunity to remind the world why he has called himself “Must-See” for years. Can he capitalize on this chance and secure a date with destiny against John Cena? Or will another superstar rise to the occasion and seize the moment?
Fans won’t have to wait long to find out, as the next chapter in “The Last Time Is Now” tournament unfolds live on SmackDown.
According to one veteran WWE agent backstage, “The Miz is the ultimate opportunist. When the lights are brightest, he finds a way to stay relevant. Don’t count him out—he’s got something to prove, and he knows how to deliver when it matters most.”
Stay tuned for ongoing coverage of “The Last Time Is Now” tournament as WWE’s biggest farewell story continues to take shape.