Mark Henry vs. John Cena – Who’ll be the new WWE Champ?

A fake retirement speech, which most of us believed, followed by slamming John Cena to the ground and then shoving the WWE title onto Cena’s chest with the words – “That’ll be mine soon!” – Boy oh boy! That sent shivers down my spine.

The World’s Strongest Man certainly doesn’t deliver empty threats, and Cena’s got to be on his guard!

Not saying that Cena won’t win, he won’t win easy. Mark Henry is most certainly in the twilight of his wrestling career if you consider his recent injuries. Yes, he shouted out loud that he’s got lots left in his tank, but let’s face it – he is old.

Mark Henry’s ultimate dream of becoming the WWE Champion will be fulfilled if he beats John Cena, but do we really see that happening?

Before Henry hangs up his gloves for real, giving him a chance to carry the WWE title would be a sign of gratitude and respect for all that he has done for the company. Awarding Henry the WWE title would provide symmetry to his resume, adding a a third world title to his ECW and World Heavyweight Championship wins. It would be a fitting retirement gift, a way to honor Henry before he wraps up his career.

What about John Cena then?

John Cena went through a lot of anguish and pain before he was crowned as the new WWE Champion and he may not be as willing to give up the title so soon. Though it has to be said that there are many more deserving men, including Mark Henry, who could hold that title and do justice to it.

I wouldn’t bet on John Cena to win, however. Having Henry win would be a welcome shock and an emotional experience for the audience.

Henry hoisting the WWE title above his head to end the night also adds to the short list of African-Americans who have held a pro-wrestling world championship. To put Henry’s name in the history books next to Ron Simmons and The Rock is not an act of affirmative action, but affirmation of the man’s accomplishments.