Morning Daily News Update: May 8, 2026 – John Cena Says Backlash News Will Shake WWE “To Its Core”

Good morning, all!

It’s Friday, the weekend is almost here! And it’s time for the Morning Daily News Update!

We’ve also got some new stuff from the blog from yesterday:

Niz has the AEW Collision review from Wednesday’s 3-hour special
Scott Herrin has the review of last night’s episode of TNA Impact

John Cena Says His Backlash Announcement Will ‘Shock The Very Foundation Of WWE’

John Cena has intensified the hype surrounding his upcoming appearance at WWE Backlash, claiming his planned announcement will “shock the very foundation of WWE.” In a video posted to social media, Cena said the news would impact everyone from fans to champions and rookies, while encouraging viewers not to miss Saturday’s event in Tampa.

The latest comments build on Cena’s earlier claim that the announcement would be “history-making.” Reports have stated WWE locked in Cena’s Backlash appearance weeks ago, with his Tampa residence making the booking convenient, while Dave Meltzer previously reported Cena remains under contract for multiple WWE appearances following WrestleMania 42.

Brock Lesnar Moved To WWE Alumni Section Following WrestleMania 42

Brock Lesnar appears to be edging closer to retirement after being moved from WWE’s active roster page to its alumni section. The change follows months of speculation after Lesnar lost to Oba Femi at WrestleMania 42, when he left his gloves and boots in the ring, then embraced Paul Heyman and walked backstage.

Since then, WWE has aired tribute-style video packages celebrating Lesnar’s career and released farewell-themed merchandise, further fuelling retirement speculation. Although WWE has not officially announced his retirement, the alumni roster move has strengthened the belief that Lesnar’s in-ring career may now be over after one of the most decorated runs in wrestling history.

Backstage News On Roman Reigns WWE Status Amid TKO Pay Cuts

Roman Reigns is reportedly still firmly part of WWE’s future plans despite recent online speculation about his status. Reports stated Reigns being advertised for several June events was simply an internal error, and there is said to be no concern within WWE or TKO Group Holdings about him leaving the company.

The rumours surfaced following WWE’s recent roster cuts and contract restructuring reports, as well as Reigns’ quiet removal from upcoming event advertising. Reigns is currently set to defend the World Heavyweight Championship against Jacob Fatu at WWE Backlash this Saturday.

Update On Big E’s Future On WWE PLE Kickoff Shows

Big E is reportedly expected to remain with WWE despite recent questions surrounding his future following the departures of Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods. According to WrestleVotes Radio, Big E is viewed internally as a “valuable presence” and is expected to continue working WWE premium live event kickoff shows.

Big E has remained out of in-ring action since suffering a serious neck injury several years ago, instead transitioning into a broadcast role for WWE. He previously revealed doctors strongly encouraged him to reconsider wrestling again, with Big E admitting he has been leaning towards retirement from active competition.