The picture became clearer for John Cena’s farewell tournament on Friday night as WWE SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis dropped the final two first-round matchups for the “Last Time is Now” tournament. Wrestling fans now know exactly who will be battling for the chance to face the Cenation Leader in his final championship opportunities.
Carmelo Hayes Gets His Shot Against Bronson Reed
The first announced matchup pairs rising star Carmelo Hayes against the powerhouse Bronson Reed. This clash of styles promises fireworks as Hayes’ technical prowess meets Reed’s devastating power game.
Hayes wasted no time addressing his fallen former tag team partner following the announcement. After watching The Miz suffer a tournament defeat to Jey Uso earlier in the evening, “Melo” sent a clear message about their unfinished business.
“Miz may have won the battle, but we’re just getting started,” Hayes declared, making it clear their partnership issues remain far from resolved.
When pressed by backstage interviewer Cathy Kelley about his tournament aspirations, Hayes displayed his trademark confidence regarding a potential matchup with Cena.
“If I get a shot at Cena, I’d beat him for the title because Melo don’t miss,” Hayes stated emphatically.
Penta vs. Finn Balor: Unfinished Business Renewed
The second revealed matchup features a rematch months in the making. Penta will square off against Finn Balor in what represents unfinished business between these two elite competitors.
These wrestlers previously tangled back in April, but that encounter ended unsatisfactorily in a no contest. Now they get the chance to settle their score with much higher stakes on the line.
The winner advances in a tournament that could culminate in facing John Cena for championship gold during his farewell tour.
SmackDown Main Event Chaos Erupts
Tournament participant Bronson Reed took center stage in Friday’s main event, facing off against Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. However, the match dissolved into pandemonium when outside interference derailed the action.
Bron Breakker initiated the chaos by attacking Rhodes, causing a disqualification finish. The assault intensified when Logan Paul and Drew McIntyre joined the beatdown, leaving the American Nightmare laid out before his Survivor Series premium live event.
This attack raises questions about Reed’s tournament preparation and whether the distraction could impact his upcoming clash with Hayes.
Surprise Return Shakes Up Tournament Field
Friday night delivered an unexpected blast from the past as Zack Ryder made his shocking WWE return after a five-and-a-half-year absence. The former Intercontinental Champion emerged as LA Knight’s mystery opponent in tournament action.
Despite the nostalgic pop from the WWE Universe, Ryder’s comeback story hit an immediate roadblock. LA Knight successfully defended his tournament position, advancing to the next round while sending the returning veteran back to the drawing board.
With these final matchups now official, the tournament bracket is set for what promises to be an emotional journey toward John Cena’s final championship opportunities. Will Hayes’ confidence prove justified, or can Reed’s raw power overwhelm the cocky upstart? And after their unfinished April encounter, which competitor will finally prove superiority when Penta and Balor lock up again?
