John Cena Talks About His Match with Bray Wyatt, His Legacy, Taker's Streak, Triple H, More

John Cena recently spoke with AMNY.com to promote WrestleMania XXX. Here are some highlights:

What are you doing to prepare for your match with Bray Wyatt?

This one is peculiar. You ask me any other WrestleMania opponent I’ve ever had, I’d be able to give you a clean cut shot: “John Cena’s going to walk into wherever and kick the holy hell out of somebody.” But the Bray Wyatt situation is different. He’s a difficult opponent to scout because I don’t necessarily know what he wants to do at WrestleMania. A lot of my WrestleMania opponents in the past want to simply win. Bray Wyatt has stated that the most important thing for him to do on April 6 is ruin my legacy and he’s also that that doesn’t necessarily come at the cost of defeating me. He’s done some very awkward stuff on “Monday Night Raw” at the cost of victory, having victory within his grasp or one of his family members having victory within [their] grasp and then just throwing away victories just to create an embarrassing moment, or undermining moment for me. So, it’s very been very difficult for me to scout Bray, very difficult for me to come up with a battle plan or a playbook and I think, from an outside perspective, that’s what makes WrestleMania interesting. It can be the first match that I’ve been in where I may win, but I may wind up the loser, if that makes any sense.

What is your legacy?

I’m certainly not afraid to address the fact that there are a lot of people that enjoy my performances, a lot of people that don’t. I think the one thing that I’ve been consistent to over the years is the reason I go out there. I’ve openly said I love the WWE. I truly operate on a schedule of hustle, loyalty and respect. That’s the term on the T-shirt, but it simply means hard work, respect everyone, even though they may be your enemy, and be loyal to those who are loyal to you. That’s pretty much my ideology -- so good, bad or indifferent. You know, I’ve been around for 12 years now, so when you come out and say that the first time, people may not believe it, but 12 years people, people are like, you know what, this is what this guy stands for. And I think Bray’s trying to do what he’s trying to do – he may see me in a different light or whatever, but he says he’s going to change the way people think about me.

What matches, as a fan, are you looking forward to watching?

I’m looking forward to The Shield, because I really find excitement in new. I’m a member of the WWE Universe. I’m a fan as well as a superstar, so when I see these new superstars, I get excited. … I’m really looking forward to the Andre the Giant over the top Battle Royal because it’s a 30-man situation with so many new superstars and somebody is going to have a WrestleMania moment there. I hope it’s a breakout moment for someone. The match that I am most interested in is Triple H versus Daniel Bryan, only because for six months, maybe even longer than that now, Daniel Bryan has been labeled as the guy who will never ever get an opportunity, the guy who is always beingkept down. And I agreed with that, until Daniel Bryan occupied Raw and madedemands. And those demands were met. And I think Daniel Bryan is a wonderful competitor. I think he has as much passion as anyone else in the WWE. But he asked for these matches, and it looks like a pretty unfair set of circumstances, but if you go back and watch the Raw where he took over, he asked for it. So if he doesn’t take advantage of that opportunity, if he doesn’t capitalize on that opportunity, then you really can’t say he never got one. As unfair as it may be, it’s the exact one that he asked for. So, as I said, WrestleMania is made of defining moments and when you ask for an opportunity at WrestleMania and you’re gifted opportunity, you better perform, so my eyes are on that match, big time.

Triple H hasn’t wrestled much recently. Do you think he’ll be rusty?

He’s my boss, but I’ve also been in there with him and I’ve been in there with him at WrestleMania. So he is above all else, he can wear a suit and be Triple H, or whatever he calls himself at the Tower in Stamford, Conn. When he steps in there, he’s The Game. And that is 100% true and he has that same passion that I have. I want a bigger stage. I want more eyes. I want this event to be as big as it can be, because I’m going to show the world that I’m at the top of my game. He’s a veteran of that. Daniel Bryan, I don’t know if he knows what those moments are about. Congratulations Daniel, you got everything you asked for, but hold on, man, you just got everything you asked for. It’s one of those scenarios, and I’m really looking forward to seeing that.

What are your thoughts on the Undertaker’s impressive 21-0 win streak at WrestleMania?

A couple things you know about WrestleMania – it’s the biggest show we do and always stay away from The Undertaker around WrestleMania season. He’s got a pretty good streak for himself. But you know what, in looking at it in years past, he had two fantastic matches with Shawn Michaels, and a wonderful match with Triple H. Wonderful matches. But after over 20 years, that’s a lot of wrestling. That’s a lot of performing. I feel old, and I feel the bumps and bruises and this is going to be my 10th WrestleMania. I can only imagine what’s that like. And I will say this, I haven’t been in the ring with Undertaker at WrestleMania, but I’ve been in the ring with the Undertaker and I’ve also been in the ring with Brock Lesnar. Brock Lesnar is a hoss. This guy is a 100% legit, bonafide stud. He belongs in a ring. He belongs doing what he does. And I don’t know man, I don’t know. For the first time, I can confidently say, I’m betting against the Undertake at WrestleMania.

WWE Returns to Madison Square Garden

WWE returns to Madison Square Garden for a WWE Live Event on March 8th. The updated card features Daniel Bryan vs. Kane with Triple H at ringside, John Cena and Batista vs. Bray Wyatt and Randy Orton and The New Age Outlaws vs. Cody Rhodes and Goldust vs. The Uso's.

WWE proclaims the Shield as 2013 Rookies of the Year

WWE.com has a new article where they proclaim the Shield of Dean Ambrose, Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns the 2013 WWE Rookies of the Year. The Shield were in the running for the award alongside the Wyatt Family, Fandango, Curtis Axel and Big E. Langston.

To read the full article, click here.

Video: Triple H wants there to be one undisputed champion in WWE

Rumor Mill - Backstage Talk About Roman Reigns, The Shield, Wyatt Family

Look for Roman Reigns of The Shield to eventually turn into a major babyface, but probably not for several months down the line. No word yet on what this will mean for Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins.

There is talk that with The Shield possibly dissolving soon, The Wyatt Family will take their spot as the dominant heel stable. Look for The Wyatts to have a major feud against CM Punk and Daniel Bryan.

Rumor Mill - Reason For Wyatt Family Beatdowns

This week’s episode of Monday Night Raw just wasn’t rewritten but long-term booking plans were changed and/or cut. The Wyatt Family’s attack on CM Punk and Daniel Bryan was to push them away from their respective programs with Paul Heyman and Randy Orton. These programs were blown off at the pay-per-view and WWE is moving forward.

As for long-term booking plans that were changed, here’s how it involves Kane handing Stephanie McMahon his mask. This was done to explain why he won’t be going after The Wyatt Family at this point. Bray Wyatt’s line that “the devil” made him do it has Vince McMahon behind the beatings. The new direction is that Triple H can’t handle the dirty work so Vince is handling it through The Wyatt Family. He’s scripted to have “given” Kane to Stephanie to help because Hunter couldn’t “tie up loose ends.” This is a complete 180 from plans last week that had Vince returning as a babyface with Big Show, Hunter to work Daniel Bryan and Punk’s program undecided.

Rumor Mill - Triple H Behind Wyatt Family Push

According to the Wrestling Observer Triple H is essentially the man behind bringing the Wyatt Family to the main roster and giving them a push. It is said to be one of his pet projects. The speculation is that he now sees more in the Wyatts than even the Shield.

Video: The Wyatt Family attacks Kane

Randy Orton Comments on New WWE Talents

Randy Orton was interviewed by IGN.com to promote the new 12 Rounds 2: Reloaded film. When the subject of new talents making their way to the main roster came up, Orton commented, "Well, I'm used to calling him 'Husky,' but Bray's vignettes are awesome. And the other two guys down there in FCW, who are part of his team, are talented. That little group there looks great. I have no idea what we're in for but those vignettes have everyone's heads turning backstage. And wrestling is in Bray's blood. He's the son of Mike Rotunda - I.R.S. But Curtis Axel is third generation too. And so I think there's been a lot of pressure on Joe [Hennig] just being the son of 'Mr. Perfect' Curt Hennig. I mean, how can there not be a lot of pressure? No disrespect to my father, but Mr. Perfect was around a little more and maybe had more of a following. So people might be more aware of who his father was and because of that I think he has a lot more to live up to. And that whole 'Michael McGillicutty' thing? That was just career suicide. But he made it through that. And I think anyone who can make it through having a name like 'McGillicutty' for however many years he had it is a survivor. The fact that he made it through shows you that the kid's got some staying power. And now with Paul Heyman in his back pocket? golden. Give him a couple weeks, a couple months, and he'll make a big impact."

Video: A Strange Look at Bray Wyatt

Love this!!

Jim Ross Comments on The Wyatt Family & NXT

WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has updated his blog. Check out some of the highlights below:

Bray Wyatt & Family: "The Bray Wyatt Family vignette was spot on and after seeing them perform as much as I have in NXT I can attest that they will, without question, contribute positively to WWE once they arrive on RAW and/or Smackdown. Wyatt has success and athleticism in his blood and has that rare, second gear that most big men do not possess. I can't stress how important that is. Luke Harper and Erick Rowan are big, rugged dudes who, at times, remind me of a young Mick Foley or Bruiser Brody inasmuch as they are 'brawlers' who move well for being such big men."

Former NXT Stars Stepping Up In WWE: "NXT is doing its work as many new faces from developmental are beginning to to occupy key, roster spots on RAW and Smackdown. Some incumbent talents on the main roster who are 'peculating' might want to glance over their shoulder. More, outstanding NXT prospects are pushing to be "next" on the call up list. Competition is on going and good for all. It will take time for all the 'new' to be facilitated which means that it will take patience of which many fans and some talents don't have in an abundance. I see much of 1013 being a 'transition year,' of sort, which means fresh, new, and exciting times on WWE TV programming."

You can read the full blog here.

Meet NXT's Top Prospects

Tomorrow’s brightest stars of WWE are honing their craft today on WWE NXT. These young, driven up-and-comers compete week after week at Full Sail University and in other Florida locations with their eyes on several prizes — the NXT Championship, the forthcoming NXT Tag Team Championships and ultimately earning a spot on WWE’s main roster. Take a look at 10 of NXT’s top prospects making a name for themselves in the hopes of becoming future Superstars and Divas, just as Big E Langston and The Shield have done. Click here.

JR Gives Talent Evaluations From WWE NXT TV Tapings

Jim Ross, who knows a thing or two about talent, posted a new blog on his official website with thoughts on this week’s WWE NXT television tapings. Below is an excerpt:

Bray Wyatt Family had a stellar night. Good presentation.

Sasha Banks beginning to impress.

Jake Cater back from injury.

Good taping for Cory Graves.

Adrian Neville formerly know as PAC had a superb nite. An amazing, flying Dynamite Kid.

Mason Ryan returned to the ring & looked massive & imposing.

England’s Paige is improving & is a keeper in my view. The anti Diva.

Alex Riley looked good as did Bo Dallas & Michael McGillicutty.

Really enjoyed Kassius Ohno & Leo Kruger together.

Xavier Woods has ‘something.’

Willam Regal & Tony “Don’t call me Richard” Dawson handled all the commentary. Michael Cole & yours truly helped the announcers that were there. Enjoyed it. Shawn Michaels held court for hours w/ the young talents. Awesome. Great seeing Kevin Nash & Sean Waltman. Dusty Rhodes and I talked Johnny Football. An overall great experience at Full Sail & one I’d encourage fans to try at least once.

Rumor Mill - Backstage News On NXT Wrestlers

With Seth Rollins, Dean Ambrose and Roman Reigns being brought up to the main roster, the next group of guys on the rise in NXT look to be Big E Langston, Bray Wyatt (Taylor Rotunda), his brother Bo Dallas (Windham Rotunda) and the tag team of The Ascension – Conor O’Brian and Kenneth Cameron.

The Ascension have a great ring entranced and packaging as a team plus have developed a lot of double team moves from the old 1980′s heel tag teams. Now that there is more emphasis on tag teams in WWE, they may be brought up together soon.

source: wrestling observer newsletter

Update on Bray Wyatt

WWE officials are very high on his new gimmick. Wyatt was expected to stay on WWE NXT while he's injured but he was not at the recent NXT tapings. The feeling is that they would rather have him take time off to get healed up after surgery and come back in six months or so with a fresh start. WWE officials want him to pay better attention to his diet and to drop some weight.

source: wrestling observer

Ricky Steamboat Comments on FCW Talent that are Ready to be Called Up

"I believe Seth Rollins and Bo Rotundo are ready for a look-see. I think Husky [Harris], who is Bo's brother is ready for a look. A guy who has been with us for about six months in Antonio Cesaro is ready for a look. Not knowing his background, I find he has been doing this for a while. He is ready. I think my son is ready for a look. Every quarter collectively, all the trainers give a report on all the talent that is sent up to WWE for them to look at."

Punt Puts Husky Harris Out of Action

WWE NXT Results: Two Say Goodbye

In a special, live double elimination night of WWE NXT, the final five competitors had one last chance to plead their cases to the WWE Pros during the NXT Rookies Open Mic. While some of the WWE Pros were traveling in Asia, they were able to cast their absentee ballots in the NXT Poll to help determine who is one step closer to becoming WWE’s next breakout star.

After the votes of the WWE Universe were combined with those of the WWE Pros, the NXT Poll results were revealed live. The first NXT Rookie to be eliminated during week 11 of competition was “Showtime” Percy Watson and the second was Husky Harris. Full results.

source: wwe.com

First NXT Season Two Contestant Eliminated

Tonight on WWE NXT, one of the eight Rookies' road came to an end, as the night of the first Pros' Poll also signaled season two's first surprise elimination.

The WWE Universe and the WWE Pros votes were combined and the results have been tabulated for first NXT Poll. Kaval is ranked No. 1, while Titus O’Neil came in last, ranking at No. 8! With the ranking, O’Neil has been eliminated from the NXT competition. The combined results of the NXT Poll are as follows:

1. Kaval
2. Percy Watson
3. Michael McGillicutty
4. Alex Riley
5. Lucky Cannon
6. Eli Cottonwood
7. Husky Harris
8. Titus O'Neil

source: wwe.com

Background Info: NXT Season 2 Rookies: Who Are They?