Booker T Wants WWE NXT Star To Face John Cena; Explains Why It's Now Off The Cards

Oba Femi appeared at the very end of Tuesday's episode of NXT, posing as the show faded out but almost certainly indicating he's back to reclaim the NXT title. Vic Joseph said on commentary that he'd returned for "one last reign", which suggests he'll be targeting Saints and the gold before getting called up to RAW or SmackDown.

It was widely expected that Oba was headed for the main roster after losing his title, and that feeling grew when he wasn't seen on NXT for over a month. His return, albeit well produced, disappointed some fans who felt there was nothing left for him to do on Tuesday nights.

Booker T said he expected Oba to go over if he challenges the Saints for the NXT Championship. He noted on his Hall of Fame podcast:

"Oba Femi made his return back to NXT last night, and I dunno, Oba Femi seems like he's back for one more run at the NXT Championship. I'm wondering, if he does go after Ricky Saints, I don't think, I don't like booking the show, but I don't think they brought him back to lose."

Some were hoping to see the 27-year-old participate in the 16-man tournament on RAW and SmackDown in which the winner faces Cena at Saturday Night's Main Event in his retirement match (December 13th).

Booker appeared to be one of those:

"If he is the next in line for that championship, I don't know, I don't see the John Cena thing working out. The timing is not right."

But the two-time WWE Hall of Famer would be delighted if Oba got the nod to 'retire' Cena next month:

"I don't know who it's gonna be. If it is someone like Oba Femi I'm definitely gonna be excited, because a match like that, boom, the passing of the torch."

Oba has made a monstrous impact since arriving on NXT in November 2022, becoming quite possibly the most destructive force in the brand's history. It seems he's set to spend a little longer in developmental and will do so with a new look, having put on more muscle.

Oba Femi Hoped To Face John Cena

Oba is one of the most exciting talents in WWE and has fans and Booker salivating at the prospect of him facing some of the biggest names, such as Roman Reigns, CM Punk and Randy Orton. He made clear earlier this year during an appearance on the No-Contest Wrestling podcast that he'd love to get in the ring with Cena, but acknowledged it was unlikely due to the 48-year-old calling time on his career.

"I wish. I wish. But he’s in the twilight of his career. He’s winding down, I’m just getting started. I don’t know if our paths are going to cross in that fashion, I hope it does, but I don’t think so."

While it looks unlikely the Nigerian will be competing in the Last Time is Now tournament, he could still be on the card come Saturday Night's Main Event next month. Cena has pushed for NXT talent to be showcased in exhibition matches at Capital One Center in Washington D.C.

There are some intriguing options for Oba to face if he is to be handed a match on the same night Cena retires. But having him win is important, and one of the best possible opponents is Sheamus, who is putting younger talent over at this stage of his career while having bruising battles.