Cena Vs. Styles: Epic Royal Rumble 2017 Showdown

The WWE John Cena vs AJ Styles Royal Rumble 2017 match remains a celebrated highlight in modern wrestling history. Guys, this clash wasn't just another title defense; it was a masterclass in storytelling, athleticism, and sheer will. Seeing these two titans collide for the WWE Championship on such a grand stage delivered a match that fans still rave about today. We're diving deep into what made this bout so special, exploring the buildup, the in-ring action, and the lasting impact it had on both superstars' careers.

The Road to Royal Rumble: Setting the Stage

Before these two legends locked horns at the Royal Rumble, the rivalry between John Cena and AJ Styles had been brewing for months, captivating the WWE Universe with its intensity and unpredictability. The feud started in mid-2016 when AJ Styles, after making his stunning debut at the Royal Rumble earlier that year, began asserting his dominance as "The Face That Runs the Place." This moniker directly challenged John Cena's long-held position as the top dog in WWE. The animosity quickly escalated into a series of high-profile matches, each designed to determine who truly reigned supreme. Their initial encounters were nothing short of spectacular, filled with innovative offense and dramatic near-falls that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Styles managed to secure a couple of early victories, further fueling the fire and establishing himself as a credible threat to Cena's legacy. These wins weren't just flukes; they were calculated displays of skill and cunning, showcasing Styles' ability to outmaneuver Cena both physically and mentally.

However, John Cena, never one to back down from a challenge, recalibrated his strategy and prepared for a relentless counter-attack. He understood that Styles represented a new breed of competitor – agile, resourceful, and fiercely determined. Cena knew he had to dig deep and push himself beyond his limits to reclaim his spot at the top. As the months progressed, the back-and-forth continued, with both men trading wins and losses, each victory more hard-fought than the last. The personal stakes grew higher with every passing week, with Cena and Styles exchanging increasingly pointed barbs and accusations. They delved into each other's pasts, questioning their motivations and challenging their identities. Cena accused Styles of being a flash in the pan, a flavor-of-the-month who would eventually fade into obscurity. Styles, in turn, painted Cena as an outdated relic, a symbol of the old guard who was desperately clinging to his former glory. This psychological warfare added another layer of intrigue to their rivalry, making it clear that this was about more than just a championship; it was about pride, respect, and the future of WWE. The culmination of this intense buildup led them to the Royal Rumble, where they would finally settle the score in a match for the WWE Championship. The stage was set for an epic clash between two of the greatest performers of their generation, each determined to prove their superiority once and for all.

Royal Rumble 2017: Match Breakdown

The Royal Rumble 2017 match between John Cena and AJ Styles was a wrestling clinic from start to finish. The energy in the Alamodome was electric as these two icons stepped into the ring, each carrying the weight of their storied careers and the expectations of millions of fans worldwide. The match began with a palpable sense of respect, but that quickly dissolved as the two men began to test each other's mettle. Cena, known for his power and resilience, started with a series of forceful maneuvers, attempting to ground Styles and assert his dominance. Styles, however, relied on his agility and technical prowess to evade Cena's attacks, frustrating the Cenation leader with his evasive tactics. The early exchanges were fast-paced and intense, with both men showcasing their impressive arsenals. Cena delivered his signature shoulder tackles and spinebusters, while Styles responded with lightning-fast kicks and innovative counters. The crowd was on its feet, fully invested in every near-fall and reversal. As the match progressed, the intensity only increased. Cena and Styles began to take more risks, pushing their bodies to the limit in pursuit of victory. Styles executed a breathtaking Phenomenal Forearm, sending Cena crashing to the mat. Cena retaliated with a thunderous Attitude Adjustment, nearly securing the win. The near-falls became more frequent, each one eliciting gasps and cheers from the audience. It was clear that both men were willing to do whatever it took to emerge victorious.

One of the most memorable moments of the match came when Styles locked in the Calf Crusher, a submission hold that had proven to be his most devastating weapon. Cena, in visible pain, struggled to escape, his face contorted in agony. The crowd roared as Cena used every ounce of strength to crawl towards the ropes, finally breaking the hold just before succumbing to the pressure. This sequence showcased Cena's incredible resilience and determination, proving why he had remained at the top of WWE for so long. In the end, after a series of back-and-forth exchanges, Cena found an opening and delivered two consecutive Attitude Adjustments to Styles, finally pinning him to win the WWE Championship. The victory marked Cena's record-tying 16th world title, solidifying his place in wrestling history. The match was a testament to the skill and athleticism of both men, and it left the WWE Universe buzzing with excitement and appreciation. It was a reminder of why wrestling can be so captivating, when two talented performers come together to create a truly unforgettable moment.

The Impact and Aftermath

The John Cena vs. AJ Styles Royal Rumble 2017 match wasn't just a thrilling encounter; it had a significant impact on both superstars' careers and the WWE landscape. For John Cena, the victory marked a historic milestone as he tied Ric Flair's record of 16 world championships. This achievement cemented Cena's legacy as one of the greatest WWE Superstars of all time, further solidifying his position as the face of the company. The win also provided Cena with renewed momentum, allowing him to continue his run as a top-tier performer and inspire millions of fans worldwide. Cena's journey to the 16th title was filled with challenges and obstacles, making the victory all the more satisfying for him and his loyal followers. It was a testament to his unwavering dedication, his incredible work ethic, and his ability to consistently deliver in the ring. Cena's post-match celebration was met with thunderous applause and chants of his name, underscoring the deep connection he had forged with the WWE Universe over the years.

On the other hand, while AJ Styles may have lost the match, his performance was nothing short of remarkable. He proved that he belonged in the main event scene and that he could go toe-to-toe with the very best. Styles' innovative offense, his technical prowess, and his undeniable charisma captivated audiences, earning him the respect of fans and peers alike. The match against Cena elevated Styles' status in WWE, transforming him from a newcomer to a legitimate top star. Despite the defeat, Styles remained a prominent figure in WWE's main event picture, continuing to deliver stellar performances and capture championships in the years that followed. His ability to bounce back from adversity and consistently raise the bar for in-ring excellence solidified his legacy as one of the most talented and respected wrestlers of his generation. The match also had a ripple effect on the WWE landscape, paving the way for future dream matches and rivalries. It demonstrated that WWE was willing to embrace new talent and showcase a more diverse range of wrestling styles. The success of the Cena vs. Styles rivalry encouraged WWE to take more risks and experiment with different storylines, ultimately leading to a more exciting and unpredictable product for fans to enjoy. In conclusion, the Royal Rumble 2017 match between John Cena and AJ Styles was a pivotal moment in WWE history, leaving a lasting impact on both superstars and the company as a whole.

Why This Match Still Resonates Today

Even years later, the WWE John Cena vs AJ Styles Royal Rumble 2017 match continues to resonate with wrestling fans for several reasons. First and foremost, the in-ring chemistry between Cena and Styles was undeniable. They had a unique ability to anticipate each other's moves and create a seamless blend of styles that kept audiences on the edge of their seats. Their back-and-forth exchanges were filled with drama and intensity, making every near-fall feel like a potential turning point in the match. This level of chemistry is rare in professional wrestling, and it's one of the main reasons why this match is still talked about today. The storytelling was also top-notch. The rivalry between Cena and Styles was built on a foundation of mutual respect and fierce competition, with both men determined to prove their superiority. The match at the Royal Rumble was the culmination of months of animosity, and it felt like a true battle for supremacy. The stakes were high, and the emotional investment from both performers was palpable. This made the match feel more meaningful and impactful, elevating it beyond a simple title defense. Furthermore, the match represented a changing of the guard in WWE. Cena, the established veteran, was facing off against Styles, the relative newcomer who was quickly rising through the ranks. This dynamic created a sense of uncertainty, as fans wondered whether Cena would be able to hold onto his spot at the top or whether Styles would usher in a new era. This uncertainty added another layer of intrigue to the match, making it feel like a pivotal moment in WWE history. The match is a reminder of what makes professional wrestling so captivating. It was a perfect storm of talent, storytelling, and emotion, resulting in a truly unforgettable moment. As long as wrestling fans continue to appreciate the art form, the WWE John Cena vs AJ Styles Royal Rumble 2017 match will continue to be celebrated as one of the greatest of all time.