John Cena Set to Compete on SmackDown for the First Time in Over 29 Months

John Cena will face his big rival on SmackDown after weeks of rising tensions between the two in WWE.

John Cena Set to Compete on SmackDown for the First Time in Over 29 Months

John Cena (via- WWE)

John Cena is currently on his farewell tour in WWE, and he’s making sure to leave nothing on the table. From entering the Royal Rumble to revisiting legendary rivalries with names like Randy Orton and CM Punk, Cena is doing it all. Now, he’s set to add another memorable moment to his final run by competing on SmackDown next week — marking his first match on the blue brand in 29 months.

It was announced on this week’s SmackDown that The Cenation Leader will face R-Truth in a rematch from Saturday Night’s Main Event. The last time Cena wrestled on SmackDown was back on the December 30, 2022 episode, where he teamed up with Kevin Owens to take on Roman Reigns and Sami Zayn.

While Cena did compete in a few dark matches for SmackDown in 2022, none of them aired on television. Now, fans are buzzing with excitement for his upcoming clash, as The Franchise Player is set to face a more focused and serious version of R-Truth for the first time.

In their last encounter, Truth was more of a comedic character. However, this time, the 53-year-old is stepping into the ring with a mission — to take down the Hollywood icon. Furthermore, R-Truth has repeatedly attacked the Undisputed WWE Champion on SmackDown in recent weeks.

In response, John Cena even approached GM Nick Aldis, requesting a restraining order against this more dangerous version of Ron Killings. Despite that, Truth still managed to get his hands on The Cenation Leader, blaming him for his reported exit from the company last week.

CM Punk claims he sees right through John Cena

This week on SmackDown, CM Punk came face-to-face with John Cena ahead of their upcoming showdown at Night of Champions. The Best in the World shut down anything Cena had to say with a sharp, scathing promo. Punk didn’t hold back, even going as far as claiming he can see right through Cena—and vowed to bring back The Franchise Player’s true heroic self.

John Cena and CM Punk
John Cena and CM Punk [via- WWE]

The Second City Saint reminded everyone that Cena was never able to beat him during his prime. He claimed he can see right through the Hollywood star, insisting that the Undisputed WWE Title has corrupted him. Punk then declared that he plans to take the title from The Cenation Leader—not just to win gold, but to help bring Cena back to his true babyface roots.

I sound like little PG John Cena, which is ironic, because do you know who you sound like? ‘I’m gonna ruin wrestling, I’m gonna take the strap and leave!’ Man, you sound like CM Punk.

CM Punk on SmackDown

Moreover, The Straight Edge Superstar acknowledged Cena’s recent shift in ideology, saying the Hollywood star now sounds more like “CM Punk from 2011.” In a surprising twist, Punk admitted he feels like he’s become more of a “John Cena” in these final chapters of their WWE journeys.

The Chicago native added that if taking a trip to Saudi Arabia is what it takes to save wrestling from going off the rails, he’s more than ready for it. It appears the personality of Punk has added a new depth to Cena’s retirement tour, which has so far been underwhelming except for a few electric moments.

CM Punk to play a crucial role in John Cena’s babyface turn in WWE?

CM Punk has long been one of John Cena’s greatest rivals, with the two clashing numerous times throughout their storied careers. Punk has often called out The Cenation Leader as an industry plant, challenging his image and motives. But in 2025, things could come full circle—as The Second City Saint might be the very one to spark Cena’s return to his babyface roots.

John Cena and CM Punk
John Cena and CM Punk (via WWE)

During CM Punk’s entrance on this week’s SmackDown, his theme music cut off precisely as the lyrics hit “set me free.” At that very moment, the camera shifted to The Franchise Player, creating a subtle yet powerful visual that fans quickly picked up on.

The timing felt intentional, packed with symbolism. There’s a strong possibility that The Best in the World could be the one to take the very title that has corrupted Cena, using it as a way to guide him back toward compassion. While it may not trigger an immediate babyface turn for the Hollywood star, it could serve as the catalyst for Cena’s return to heroism in WWE.

Also Read: