A Shocking Turn of Events: John Cena’s Victory over Nexus in SummerSlam 2010 Shattered Wade Barrett’s Momentum
SummerSlam 2010 was a wrestling event that fans will never forget, not only because of the thrilling action but the unexpected twists behind the scenes. In the highlight of the night, Team WWE, led by John Cena, went head-to-head against Team Nexus. Despite Team Nexus being primed for victory, the final result favored Cena, causing a domino effect that changed the trajectory of Wade Barrett’s career.
Wade Barrett and his team from Nexus were gearing up for what was supposed to be a victorious match against Team WWE at SummerSlam 2010. Leading his team with the likes of Darren Young, Michael Tarver, Ryback, David Otunga, Heath Slater, and Justin Gabriel, Barrett had high hopes of cementing their credibility.
John Cena’s team was no less star-studded, with talents like John Morrison, R-Truth, Bret Hart, Chris Jericho, Edge, and Daniel Bryan. Yet, the original plan, according to Barrett, was for Nexus to come out on top, proving their dominance in the wrestling world.
The Unforeseen Change: Cena’s Unexpected Triumph
Just before the match, Nexus was informed by Arn Anderson that Cena would win. The shocking news initially seemed unbelievable to the team, and they sought Vince McMahon to confirm.
After a frantic search, McMahon was found, and the unexpected decision was validated. McMahon decided that Cena would win to provide a happy ending to the feud, primarily aimed at sending the younger audience home with smiles on their faces.
The Aftermath: Barrett’s Unrecoverable Loss
The victory by John Cena was a turning point for Barrett, whose momentum seemed to crumble after that night. While he managed to claim the Intercontinental Champion title later on, the spark that had defined his dominance was never the same.
In his 2017 interview with Inside the Ropes, Barrett shed light on the confusion and disappointment that marked that fateful night. His wrestling career never managed to recover from the loss, and he transitioned to a commentator role on SmackDown in 2016.
SummerSlam 2010 remains an event that many remember for the exciting match-ups and shocking turn of events. The last-minute decision to favor Cena over Barrett changed the trajectory of the latter’s wrestling career.
The ripple effect of that single decision highlights the unpredictability of the wrestling world, where storylines can change in an instant, impacting careers for years to come.
The victory may have sent the kids home happy that night, but it left a lasting shadow on Barrett’s career, a reminder of what could have been, had the original plans been followed. His move to the commentary table at SmackDown marks a new chapter, but the memories of SummerSlam 2010 linger on, a poignant reminder of a dream unfulfilled.