John Cena has very fond memories of a late, great rival in his latest recap.
At a time when fans were beginning to grow tired of Cena’s matches, the 16-time World Champion was set to defend the WWE Championship against Umaga in a Last Man Standing match at the 2007 Royal Rumble. Regarded as one of Cena’s best matches, especially in that era, the contest brought out the best in both men and saw Cena win the match after choking out The Samoan Bulldozer with a removed turnbuckle.
Looking back on the match on his TikTok account, Cena greatly credited Umaga for his in-ring abilities and for being an amazing person outside of the squared circle:
What a recap to re-live the Last Man Standing match vs. the late, great Umaga. This match was extremely innovative, we used the steps a lot but I can’t say enough about Eki’s speed, strength athleticism and ability. He was a one-of-a-kind performer with an enormous heart. When I look back at this match, like I said we did some innovative stuff and destroyed a lot of things around us as well as taking a turnbuckle off the ring, you’ll see that later. I’m not really ultra-involved with all the chaos and there’s plenty of that.
Cena continued, stating that everyone benefited from the match and that he is honoured to have known Umaga:
I really just look back so fondly with my memories of Umaga and what a friend Eki was. I think this a great example of when two professionals get in there as friends and better each other in the process. I’m a better human being for having known Eki and Umaga and this was just one example of that.
Umaga sadly passed away in 2009 aged 36 years old. Leaving a lasting legacy to this day, many are calling for the former Intercontinental Champion to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.
John Cena Heaps Praise On Former Rivals Innovative Skills
A few months prior to facing Umaga at the Royal Rumble, Cena would successfully defend the title against Edge in a TLC match. Recalling the match with The Rated R Superstar, John Cena credited his rival for having a great mind for the business.
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