This week’s episode of WWE Raw kicked off with John Cena addressing the WWE Universe, laying out the limited number of appearances remaining before his anticipated retirement. Cena’s promo, however, quickly shifted gears, setting the stage for a renewed clash with his long-time adversary, Randy Orton.
Cena began by referencing the reactions of the WWE fans. “You heartless bastards, you boo him on Friday and cheer him on Friday then boo on Sunday, and I say his name and the man we all put on our shoulders last year because he finished his story now disgusts you? That’s what’s wrong with this.”
Continuing his address, Cena turned his attention to the current WWE landscape and his own position within it. “There is no one in the WWE with the ruthless aggression of John Cena, but unlike you, I have a heart…” he stated, before asserting his dominance and questioning any potential challengers for his newly won Undisputed WWE Championship.
Cena boldly proclaimed that no one possessed the necessary “stones or ruthless aggression” to dethrone him, urging the fans to “take a good look at the last real champion.”
As Cena postured in the ring, Orton’s familiar music hit, and the “Viper” stealthily appeared behind Cena, delivering his signature RKO to a thunderous reaction. Orton then stood over the fallen champion, hoisting the Undisputed WWE Championship high above his head, signaling his intentions.
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This surprise attack strongly indicates a forthcoming match between Cena and Orton at WWE Backlash, scheduled to take place in three weeks. Orton himself acknowledged the rekindled feud with a succinct message on Twitter, simply stating, “Hello, old friend.”
Both legendary stars are advertised for the event, which will mark Cena’s first Backlash appearance since 2009 and is widely expected to be one of his final matches before his rumored retirement in December 2025. The encounter reignites a rivalry that defined a significant era in WWE history, with both Cena and Orton publicly expressing their desire for one final showdown.
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Cena and Orton’s intertwined careers date back to their time in the “OVW Class of 2002,” alongside future stars like Brock Lesnar and Batista. They both debuted on the main WWE roster in 2002 and quickly ascended the ranks, becoming two of the company’s top figures throughout the mid-2000s and beyond.
Their numerous clashes for the WWE and World Heavyweight Championships have headlined multiple major pay-per-views, including WrestleMania, solidifying their place as two of the most decorated champions in WWE history. Cena holds a record 17 world titles, and Orton boasts 14. The upcoming Backlash encounter promises to be another significant chapter in their storied rivalry.
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