WWE Hall of Famer Jeff Jarrett recently shared concerns about WWE’s newly announced John Cena Classic tournament. Jarrett explained why he believes the concept could hurt traditional wrestling storytelling.
The John Cena Classic is expected to feature crossover matches between WWE main roster stars and NXT talent. Cena also confirmed that the winner of the John Cena Classic Championship will be decided through fan voting instead of traditional match results and booking.
While the idea has created excitement among fans, Jeff Jarrett believes the voting system could damage an important part of professional wrestling storytelling.
Jeff Jarrett explains why fan voting could hurt WWE storytelling
Speaking on his My World podcast, Jarrett explained that he understands the business side of the tournament and why WWE wants fan interaction across social media platforms.
“The definition of success is when preparation beats opportunity, you know, Cena. So, now we’re going to come along, and I get it.”
He pointed out that WWE will likely use polls across social media apps to increase engagement. However, Jarrett questioned how the concept fits into wrestling logic if someone can become champion without actually winning matches in the traditional sense.
“But in the storytelling component of, yeah, you can become champion, and you don’t have to win your matches. Yes, the business, and that’s why we may be all kind of overthinking this. And it is what it is because the whole world knows we’re scripted entertainment. But we at least want to get lost in the story and go for the title, it takes that component out.”
Jeff Jarrett says WWE cannot ignore wrestling psychology
“The suspension of disbelief on what matters in our world as we’re watching this two-hour episode or three-hour episode or three-hour premium live event. When we get immersed in the story, why do we care when a hip toss happens, or a false finish happens, or a spectacular move off the top?”
“Why are we looking for the performance aspect? Yes, they’re trying something new. When we talked about the top of the show, the Fairway To Hell, and the innovations. And I’m a third-generation guy who is huge on trying something new. Don’t keep doing the same stuff over and over and over.”
“But Cena is the face of it. He’s supposed to be, you know, he never was really retired. He’s actively involved. People are waiting for him any minute to get shoved around and come out of retirement.”
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