John Cena's Retirement: Rumors, Rivalries, and NXT's Future (2025)

John Cena's final WWE match is looming, and the speculation is rampant! But are we about to be robbed of a dream match? Plus, we've got backstage whispers about WrestleMania plans for a rising star and the fallout from AEW's brutal Blood and Guts. Let's dive into the rumor mill!

John Cena vs. Edge: The Match That Almost (Definitely) Wasn't

John Cena's farewell tour has been a nostalgic trip, rekindling legendary rivalries and sparking unforgettable moments with iconic opponents. Naturally, the question on many fans' minds has been: could we possibly see one last showdown between John Cena and Edge? It seemed like a pipe dream, but hope springs eternal, right?

With Edge (now Adam Copeland) signed with AEW and Cena firmly rooted in WWE, the odds of them sharing a ring again appeared astronomically slim. And this is the part most people miss: it's not just about contracts; it's about company pride and strategy.

Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select put the rumors to rest, stating definitively, "There have been no conversations, and no conversations about conversations. It's not a possibility and hasn't been broached outside of 'is he under contract?'" He further elaborated that WWE's reluctance to collaborate with AEW, viewing them as competition, makes any such crossover highly improbable. And let's be honest, who can blame Tony Khan for not wanting to play ball when WWE has historically taken potshots?

Cena and Edge's rivalry defined a generation of wrestling. From Edge's shocking Money in the Bank cash-in at New Year's Revolution 2006 to their unforgettable Tables, Ladders, and Chairs match at Unforgiven later that year, their battles were legendary. They elevated each other to new heights of stardom.

While one final clash would have been the ultimate fan service, we can still cherish the memories of their iconic encounters. But this begs the question: Should WWE be more open to cross-promotional events for the sake of dream matches, or is maintaining brand exclusivity more important? Where do you stand on this issue?

Stephanie Vaquer's WrestleMania 42 Spotlight

Stephanie Vaquer has taken WWE by storm in 2025! As the reigning Women's World Champion, it's no surprise that whispers about her WrestleMania 42 plans are already circulating. The latest buzz suggests that Becky Lynch and Rhea Ripley are being considered as potential opponents for Vaquer at the Showcase of the Immortals in Las Vegas next April.

It speaks volumes about the confidence WWE management has in Vaquer that they are contemplating pitting her against two of the division's biggest stars on the grandest stage. Becky Lynch, the Women's Intercontinental Champion, has been kept separate from Vaquer thus far, while Ripley has teamed with her but never faced her in competition. Both matchups offer a fresh and exciting dynamic.

Either Lynch or Ripley would be a marquee opponent, instantly elevating the match to one of the hottest on the WrestleMania card. The potential for either encounter to steal the show would further solidify the women's division's prominence on the biggest stage in professional wrestling. But here's where it gets controversial... Could putting Vaquer against a more established star overshadow her own rising popularity? Or is it the perfect way to catapult her to the next level?

John Cena Champions NXT Talent

John Cena's final match on December 13th will be more than just a farewell; it will be a platform for the future! Cena personally requested that the Saturday Night's Main Event show feature exhibition matches between main roster stars and NXT talent. This is a great move to give the young talent some exposure and credibility.

According to reports, Cena is passionate about giving back to the industry, and this initiative aligns perfectly with his goals. He wants to provide opportunities for up-and-coming performers to make a name for themselves, echoing the purpose behind his Last Time is Now Tournament.

WWE boasts a wealth of exciting young talent emerging from NXT, including names like Oba Femi, Trick Williams, and Je'Von Evans, alongside more recognizable faces such as Ricky Saints and Ethan Page. Putting these rising stars in the ring with established main roster competitors on network television exposes them to a wider audience and validates their potential. This also benefits the NXT brand, giving it valuable exposure and attracting new viewers. Do you think this is the best way to showcase new talent, or should they be built up more gradually within the NXT system?

AEW Blood and Guts Aftermath

AEW's recent Blood and Guts show on Dynamite delivered the brutal spectacle fans have come to expect, including the first-ever women's version of the match. While the match was a hit with viewers, it definitely took a toll on the competitors.

Reports indicate that Jamie Hayter sustained some damage during the contest, possibly chipping several teeth. Despite the injuries, she was described as being "as bad ass as you would expect." Skye Blue, who bled profusely throughout the match, was reported to be okay following the event.

The women's Blood and Guts match featured Skye Blue, Thekla, Julia Hart, Mercedes Mone, Megan Bayne, and Marina Shafir defeating Toni Storm, Kris Statlander, Mina Shirakawa, Jamie Hayter, Willow Nightingale, and Harley Cameron. The match was widely praised on social media. And this is the part most people miss... The women really put it all on the line, but the match was still shorter than the men's, as if they still aren't seen as equals.

Given the success of this inaugural women's Blood and Guts match, it remains to be seen whether AEW will establish it as an annual tradition, mirroring the popularity of the men's version. What do you think? Should women get access to the same opportunities as men?

John Cena's Retirement: Rumors, Rivalries, and NXT's Future (2025)
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