John Cena’s farewell tour reaches its final chapter on the 13th of December, as he steps into the ring one last time to face Gunther in Washington, D.C.
The 48-year-old is set to take his final bow at Saturday Night’s Main Event, closing the curtain on a legendary career. Throughout his retirement tour, the 17-time champion has captivated fans by revisiting classic rivalries and elevating the next generation, pushing young talent to deliver their absolute best on the grand stage.
One of Cena’s most iconic rivalries was with none other than global superstar Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. In the early 2010s, their clashes stood at the heart of WWE storytelling, becoming one of the company’s biggest and most captivating arcs. Fans were fully invested in the intensity and spectacle of their feud, which defined an era. Yet, despite the on-screen animosity, both legendary performers shared a strong off-screen friendship, one that has endured long after their rivalry left the ring.
The Rock’s Message to John Cena
Ahead of Cena’s highly anticipated final match on Saturday, The Rock took a moment to show his appreciation for his long-time colleague, calling him the greatest of all time. Cena had previously acknowledged The Rock in an Instagram post shortly after news broke that he had been nominated for Best Actor at the Golden Globes for his leading role in The Smashing Machine.
Johnson later took to the comment section of the post, thanking his former rival for the acknowledgment and expressing his appreciation.
“Love ya man and, as you know, always grateful for all you’ve done for the business we love. You are truly the GOAT. Bring your moonshine, I’ll bring the tequila,” Johnson wrote in the comment section of the post.
John Cena & The Rock’s Iconic WWE Rivalry
The iconic rivalry is highlighted by two major singles matches on the Grandest Stage of Them All. Their head-to-head record stands at 1-1, with The Rock defeating Cena in their first encounter at WrestleMania XXVIII in 2012 in a match billed as “Once in a Lifetime.” The following year, at WrestleMania 29, Cena evened the score by defeating The Rock to capture the WWE Championship.
John Cena’s legacy is defined by a record-breaking 17 world championships and a complete collection of major WWE titles, making him a Grand Slam Champion. His resume includes five United States titles, four Tag Team reigns, and victories in two Royal Rumbles, and the 2012 Money in the Bank.
Alongside multiple Slammy Awards, he’s also recognised for granting more Make-A-Wish wishes than any other celebrity, underscoring his influence both inside and outside the ring.
