John Cena’s Full WWE Match Schedule for 2025: Dates, Opponents, Storylines & Rumored Retirement
John Cena’s farewell run in WWE has become one of the most talked-about storylines of 2025. After capturing his historic 17th World Championship at WrestleMania 41, Cena has been featured prominently in WWE’s biggest events, bringing excitement and nostalgia to every appearance. From heated rivalries to potential heel turns, Cena’s journey from May to December 2025 is loaded with major matchups and memorable promos.
In this detailed breakdown, we cover every confirmed and rumored John Cena match from May to December 2025, including WWE pay-per-views like Backlash, Money in the Bank 2025, SummerSlam 2025, Crown Jewel 2025, Survivor Series 2025, and Clash in Paris 2025 . This article also includes match details, storylines, opponent speculation, and the evolving legacy of John Cena.
Saturday Night’s Main Event (May 24, Location TBD)

Match: John Cena vs R-Truth
This episode marked Cena’s return to Saturday Night’s Main Event for the first time in over a decade. What began as a friendly tag team alliance with R-Truth took a dark turn after Cena defeated Truth in a singles match.
Post-Match Drama: Cena refused a handshake and delivered a shocking second Attitude Adjustment to R-Truth after the bell, walking away to a chorus of mixed reactions from the crowd. This segment strongly fueled ongoing heel turn rumors.
John Cena just put R-Truth through the table during the post-show press conference. pic.twitter.com/SVYHWgjvwh
— Wrestle Ops (@WrestleOps) May 11, 2025
Key Highlights:
- Cena wins clean but attacks R-Truth again.
- Crowd reactions signal a character shift.
- One of the most talked-about segments of the night
WWE Money in the Bank 2025 (June 7, Los Angeles, CA)

Status: Cena is advertised to appear. Match opponent not confirmed as of May 2025.
After Backlash, Cena demanded new competition. Though no match is officially set, Cena is expected to either defend his title or confront a future challenger. WWE has announced Cena’s appearance at Money in the Bank and the June 9 Raw.
Storyline Direction: Cena may begin a feud with a rising star like Bron Breakker, who recently called Cena out over the Intercontinental Title—a title Cena has never held. Alternatively, Cody Rhodes could return for a rematch.
Key Highlights:
- Cena likely defending or appearing in a promo segment.
- Possible seeds for SummerSlam feud.
- Appearance on Raw (June 9) following MITB.
WWE SummerSlam 2025 (August 2–3, East Rutherford, NJ)

Rumored Match: John Cena (c) vs Cody Rhodes – Undisputed WWE Championship
The most anticipated rematch of the year. After losing to Cena at WrestleMania 41, Cody Rhodes may return to challenge for the title he once held. Analysts believe this could be Cena’s biggest title defense—or his final one.
Some booking theories suggest Cena might team with The Rock in a six-man tag on Night 1, followed by a championship match with Cody on Night 2. While speculative, the hype is undeniable.
Key Highlights:
- Cena vs Cody II is heavily rumored.
- Could be Cena’s final SummerSlam main event.
- Potential for The Rock involvement.
WWE Clash in Paris (August 31, Paris, France)

Status: Cena is officially advertised to appear.
While no match is confirmed, this international PLE is a perfect stage for Cena to continue his farewell tour. Whether he competes or delivers a promo, his presence is expected to add prestige to the event.
Speculation: If Cena retains the title post-SummerSlam, he could defend it here. If not, he may begin his final feud.
WWE Crown Jewel 2025 (October 11, Perth, Australia)
Match Status: Cena is officially set to compete. WWE bills this as his last-ever match in Australia.
This will be a historic moment in Cena’s career. WWE hasn’t confirmed his opponent, but this farewell bout will likely be one of his biggest international matches.
Storyline Possibilities:
- A younger heel (like Austin Theory or Solo Sikoa) challenging Cena.
- A dream rematch to cap off Cena’s international tour.
Key Highlights:
- Cena’s final Australian match.
- PLE hosted in Perth’s massive Optus Stadium.
WWE Survivor Series WarGames 2025 (November 29, San Diego, CA)
Match Status: Cena’s involvement is unconfirmed.
Survivor Series will feature WarGames once again. Whether Cena participates depends on his storyline status post-Crown Jewel. He could potentially captain a team or face one last rival in a singles match.
Speculation: If Cena’s farewell match is set for Royal Rumble 2026 or WrestleMania 42, Survivor Series may serve as a key build-up event.
Other WWE TV Appearances (Confirmed Dates)
- Saturday Night’s Main Event: May 24
- SmackDown: May 30, June 13, June 20
- Raw: June 9 (post-MITB)
Cena’s promos during these dates have helped shape each feud and upcoming event. From demanding new challengers to teasing his heel turn, Cena remains a focal point in WWE programming.
Final Thoughts: The Legacy Tour Continues
As John Cena’s farewell tour rolls through 2025, each appearance builds toward what may be his last WrestleMania. With a 17th World Title reign, classic rivalries rekindled, and new challenges ahead, Cena’s schedule from May to December 2025 is a must-watch for WWE fans.
Whether you’re following for the nostalgia, title defenses, or the long-awaited heel turn, Cena continues to prove why he’s one of the all-time greats. Stay tuned as WWE builds toward what could be the final chapter in the story of The Champ.
FAQ Section
❓1. What WWE matches is John Cena confirmed for in 2025?
John Cena is confirmed for several events from May to December 2025, including WWE Backlash, Money in the Bank, SummerSlam, Clash in Paris, Crown Jewel, and possible participation in Survivor Series WarGames.
❓2. Will John Cena retire in 2025?
WWE has not officially confirmed John Cena’s retirement in 2025, but multiple sources suggest this is his farewell tour leading to a possible retirement match in early 2026.
❓3. Who will John Cena face at SummerSlam 2025?
While not yet confirmed, Cody Rhodes is heavily rumored to face John Cena in a rematch for the Undisputed WWE Championship at SummerSlam 2025.
❓4. Is John Cena turning heel in 2025?
Following his post-match attack on R-Truth at Backlash 2025, many fans speculate Cena may be teasing a heel turn for the first time in over a decade.
❓5. What title does John Cena currently hold?
As of May 2025, John Cena is the Undisputed WWE Champion after winning his historic 17th World Championship at WrestleMania 41.