The WWE landscape has been filled with surprises and changes in recent months, and one of the most shocking reveals came at the 2025 Crown Jewel event. The highly anticipated match between John Cena and A.J. Styles was all set to take place, but a last-minute change saw Drew McIntyre step in and face Styles, leaving many to wonder what could have been.
In an exclusive interview, McIntyre spoke candidly about the events leading up to the match and the emotions he experienced when learning of the change.
A Match That Was Always Meant to Be?
According to sources close to McIntyre, the idea of him facing John Cena at Crown Jewel was initially a done deal. McIntyre had been looking forward to the opportunity to step into the ring with one of his childhood heroes, and the two had reportedly developed a strong connection during their time together in WWE.
However, as the date drew closer, McIntyre began to sense that something was amiss. “I remember getting a call from one of the higher-ups in the company, and they just casually mentioned that they were looking to switch things up,” McIntyre revealed. “At first, I thought nothing of it, but as the days went by, I started to get a sense that something more was going on.”
A Call to Face A.J. Styles
It wasn’t until just hours before the event that McIntyre received the official word: he would be facing A.J. Styles instead of John Cena. McIntyre admitted that he felt a mix of emotions when he heard the news.
“I was definitely caught off guard, but as I reflected on it, I realized that this was an opportunity to take on one of the best in the business,” McIntyre explained. “A.J. Styles is a legend, and it’s not every day that you get to step into the ring with someone of his caliber.”
What Could Have Been: A Match for the Ages?
The question on everyone’s mind is what could have been if John Cena had indeed faced Drew McIntyre at Crown Jewel. Sources close to Cena revealed that he was initially disappointed by the change, but ultimately understood the reasoning behind the decision.
“Cena is a consummate professional, and he knows that sometimes things don’t work out as planned,” said the source. “He’s been in this business long enough to know that the show must go on, and he’s been nothing but supportive of the decision.”
McIntyre’s Thoughts on the Matter
While McIntyre can’t help but wonder what could have been, he’s choosing to focus on the opportunity he was given. “I’m not one to dwell on what-ifs, because at the end of the day, I’m just grateful to be here and to have had the chance to step into the ring with someone as talented as A.J. Styles.”
When asked if he still hopes to face John Cena in the future, McIntyre smiled wryly. “You can bet your bottom dollar that I’m still interested in facing John Cena,” he said. “But for now, I’m just taking it one day at a time and enjoying the ride.”
What’s Next for Drew McIntyre?
As McIntyre looks to the future, he’s got his sights set on what’s next for him in WWE. With a match against A.J. Styles under his belt, McIntyre feels more confident than ever in his abilities.
“I’m just taking it one day at a time and focusing on being the best version of myself,” McIntyre said. “If opportunities come my way, I’ll be ready to seize them and make the most of them.”
Only time will tell what the future holds for Drew McIntyre, but one thing is for sure: he’s got the skills and determination to make it happen.