Leon Slater, the current TNA X-Division Champion, recently shared his astonishment at being selected to compete on Saturday Night’s Main Event, a significant WWE premium live event, especially considering he is not a WWE roster member. This opportunity places him on the same card as what is anticipated to be John Cena’s final in-ring performance.
Slater elaborated on his feelings during an appearance on The A2theK Wrestling Show, describing the situation as “wild.” He noted the serendipitous nature of the booking, feeling as though it was “perfectly slotted into place.” However, the magnitude of the event was amplified by the knowledge that it marked John Cena’s definitive farewell as an active competitor.
“It’s wild,” Slater admitted. “It’s another one of these things that almost feels like it’s just perfectly slotted into place for me, you know? But the fact that it’s not just any Saturday Night’s Main Event. It’s John Cena’s last ever final appearance as an in-ring competitor, is absolutely crazy. And obviously, there’s very limited spots on that card.”
The fact that he, a TNA talent, secured a spot on such a prominent WWE show, particularly one of the year’s biggest events, is a testament to his remarkable year. Adding another layer of significance is the presence of AJ Styles on the same card, a fellow TNA alumnus and wrestling legend.
An Outsider on a Grand Stage
Slater views his participation as that of an “outsider” heading into Saturday Night’s Main Event. When questioned about the possibility of John Cena himself having a hand in his selection for this momentous show, Slater confessed that the full impact of the situation is likely to resonate more deeply in the future.
“I think it’s another one of these things that’s going to hit me more a few months down the line. When it’s all kind of said and done, you know? But I think right now is like this guy is the greatest to do what I’ve spent my life trying to do,” Leon Slater stated. “You know what I’m saying? So it’s almost, I don’t want to say a culmination of my life’s work, because I hope it keeps getting better and better, and we keep going higher and higher.”
He expressed that being recognized by a figure he considers “the greatest of all time” and earning a coveted spot on a limited card, potentially with Cena’s endorsement, is an “extremely surreal” experience. The surreal nature is compounded by his current affiliation with TNA.
“And, of course, it’s with AJ Styles as well, which makes it even crazier.”
“But up to this point, it’s like you said, being recognized by the greatest of all time and being selected for a very limited spot, like I was saying before, by the man himself. I would imagine he had a say in it, at least; it is extremely surreal. And it’s even more surreal that I’m obviously still with TNA. You would think that those spots would be reserved for main roster talent only. And the fact that I’ve come in as sort of an outsider, that I’ve managed to get myself a spot on that card is just insane.”
Reflecting on a Landmark Opportunity
Slater’s journey to this prominent WWE platform highlights the evolving landscape of professional wrestling, where cross-promotional appearances, though still rare, are becoming more feasible. His presence on Saturday Night’s Main Event alongside WWE’s top stars underscores his burgeoning talent and the impact he’s made in a relatively short period.
The TNA X-Division Champion’s perspective offers a unique insight into the backstage dynamics and the sheer magnitude of being part of such a significant event. His humility and acknowledgment of the legacy of performers like John Cena and AJ Styles resonate with fans who appreciate the shared history and respect within the wrestling community.
As the wrestling world gears up for Saturday Night’s Main Event, Leon Slater’s participation adds an intriguing subplot, representing the ambition and crossover potential that continues to captivate audiences. His journey from an aspiring wrestler to sharing a ring with legends on a global stage is a narrative that speaks to the dreams and dedication inherent in the sport. The anticipation surrounding his match and his reflections on this career-defining moment are sure to be a talking point among wrestling enthusiasts.