Welcome to the dark side of history, as in one of the most polarizing finishes in WWE WrestleMania history, John Cena pinned Cody Rhodes to become WWE Champion for the 17th time—breaking Ric Flair’s long-standing record. But this wasn’t the feel-good moment some expected. Cena didn’t do it with hustle, loyalty, and respect. He did it with a low blow, a stolen title belt, and a timely assist from Travis Scott. From the moment Cena walked out with a cold stare and none of his usual theatrics, the vibe was different. No towel toss, no salute. Just business. Cody, meanwhile, rolled in with dirt bikes, a skull helmet, and his entire family front row. And they went home disappointed.

Early on, Cena played mind games. He was smug, slow, dismissive. And when Cody began to mount a comeback, Cena upped the intensity, dropping him with multiple...