Get ready to say goodbye to a legend—John Cena is stepping into the ring for his final match against Gunther at WWE's Saturday Night's Main Event on December 13, 2025. But here's where it gets emotional: After this, Cena has vowed that fans will never see him compete in the squared circle again. As we brace for this historic moment, let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit the top 5 matches that defined Cena’s iconic WWE career—from his unforgettable debut in 2002 to now. And trust me, this is the part most people miss: each of these matches not only showcases Cena’s evolution as a wrestler but also the cultural impact he’s had on the sport. Controversial question: Did Cena’s ‘ruthless aggression’ era truly redefine WWE, or was it just a marketing gimmick? Let’s dive in and you decide.
5. John Cena vs. Kurt Angle – SmackDown, June 27, 2002
This wasn’t just a match—it was the birth of a legend. While Cena’s debut against Olympic gold medalist and WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle wasn’t his most polished performance, it remains one of the most iconic debuts in wrestling history. But here’s the kicker: When Angle challenged Cena, asking how he could possibly compete with an Olympian, Cena’s response was pure gold—‘Ruthless aggression.’ He then slapped Angle, cementing his place in WWE lore. Though Cena lost, he ignited what became known as the ‘ruthless aggression era.’ Thought-provoking question: Was Cena’s slap a calculated move or a spontaneous act of defiance? Either way, it worked.
4. John Cena vs. Edge – TLC Match, Unforgiven 2006
If you’re a fan of high-risk, high-reward wrestling, this Tables, Ladders, and Chairs (TLC) match is a masterclass. Cena faced off against his arch-nemesis, Edge, in Edge’s hometown of Toronto. Controversial take: Was Edge’s invasion of Cena’s childhood home and assault on his dad a step too far, or just brilliant storytelling? Regardless, Cena’s victory—sending Edge crashing through two tables with an Attitude Adjustment from the top of a ladder—remains one of his most memorable moments. Fun fact: This match helped solidify TLC as a fan-favorite stipulation.
3. John Cena vs. The Rock – WrestleMania 28, 2012
This wasn’t just a match—it was a collision of eras. Cena vs. The Rock at WrestleMania 28 was hyped for a full year, and it delivered in every way. But here’s the part most people miss: Cena’s hubris cost him the match. After mocking The Rock’s People’s Elbow, Cena was hit with a Rock Bottom and pinned. Controversial question: Did Cena’s loss make this match even more iconic, or would a win have cemented his legacy further? Despite the defeat, this remains one of WWE’s most-watched and celebrated matches.
2. John Cena vs. Shawn Michaels – Raw, April 23, 2007
Clocking in at nearly an hour, this match is a testament to Cena’s endurance and skill. Facing the legendary Shawn Michaels, Cena proved he could hang with the all-time greats. And this is the part most people miss: Even in defeat—after taking Michaels’ Sweet Chin Music—Cena won over skeptics with his grit and determination. Thought-provoking question: Was this Cena’s most technically sound performance, or just his most emotionally charged?
1. John Cena vs. CM Punk – Raw, February 25, 2013
If you’re looking for Cena’s greatest rival, look no further than CM Punk. Their 2013 Raw match, where they battled for the right to challenge The Rock for the WWE Championship, is a masterpiece. Controversial take: Was Punk’s use of the banned piledriver a reckless move or a bold statement? Cena’s response—a never-before-seen Frankensteiner—showed he was willing to push his limits too. Cena’s final Attitude Adjustment sealed the deal, but the real winner was the audience. Final question: Is this the greatest match of Cena’s career, or is there another contender? Let’s debate in the comments!
