As WWE legend John Cena prepares for his final year in the squared circle, speculation is heating up about who will stand opposite the 16-time world champion in his retirement match. Bully Ray, the former WWE star turned popular “Busted Open Radio” host, recently gave his take on Cena’s farewell bout, sharing some intriguing ideas about who he thinks should be Cena’s last WWE opponent especially if Cena is booked to win.
credit: WWE.com
John Cena’s Upcoming Farewell: A Legendary Career Draws to a Close
John Cena announced at the 2024 Money in the Bank event that 2025 will mark the end of his illustrious in-ring career. His farewell run already includes major appearances at the Elimination Chamber, Royal Rumble, and WrestleMania 41, where he captured a record 17th world title. Cena’s final match is scheduled for December 13, 2025, on WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event, with speculation pointing to Boston as the host city a fitting choice given its proximity to Cena’s hometown in Massachusetts.
Sources close to WWE have shared that Cena will remain involved with the company post-retirement in an ambassadorial role, emphasizing his transition from active competitor to a valued WWE figure behind the scenes.
Bully Ray’s Perspective: He Wants Cena To Lose — But Offers Promising Alternatives if He Wins
During a recent episode of “Busted Open Radio,” Bully Ray expressed a strong desire to see Cena lose his last match. “If you think about it, sometimes a legend’s last match should have a little shock value. Cena losing would be the most realistic and impactful way to go out,” Ray noted. Yet, he acknowledged WWE’s tradition of honoring legends, saying, “But if WWE insists on giving Cena the win which they might I think there are some credible opponents who could make that final victory meaningful.”
Bully Ray’s Top Candidate Picks if Cena Wins
The Rock
Ray revealed that a dream scenario for many fans would be a historic rematch with The Rock. “The Rock vs. Cena was a defining chapter in the 2000s WWE landscape. Reigniting that rivalry for Cena’s final win would bring it full circle and create a huge nostalgia moment,” Ray said.Roman Reigns
Another strong contender Ray mentioned is Roman Reigns, currently WWE’s dominant Universal Champion and arguably the face of the company. “Roman represents the new era. Having Cena pass the torch to him in a respectful, high-profile match would be the perfect way to cement Roman’s legacy while still celebrating Cena.”Cody Rhodes
Ray did not rule out rising stars like Cody Rhodes. “Cody is passionate, talented, and has great storytelling ability. A final win over a guy like Cody could elevate Cena’s exit while also boosting Cody’s standing in WWE.”
Backstage Buzz: Insider Insight on Cena’s Final Match Booking
According to a WWE insider familiar with the creative process, “The company is still weighing options for Cena’s final opponent. There is pressure to make it feel historic while also protecting Cena as the legend he is. Obviously, The Rock match is a logistical challenge due to The Rock’s busy film schedule, but it’s not off the table. Meanwhile, guys like Roman and Cody are seen as realistic options.”
The insider added, “What Cena wants matters a lot, too. He’s been very honest about wanting to give his fans his best, but also being realistic about his performance level at nearly 48. So, if this match is a win for Cena, it will only be because it’s planned as a respectful, story-rich farewell.”
Why Cena Losing Could Make More Impact
Bully Ray’s preference for Cena to drop the final match draws on a broader wrestling philosophy: the power of the underdog or rising star defeating a legend can create a generational moment. “Look at what happened when Shawn Michaels passed the torch to Ric Flair and later to Randy Orton. Those moments meant a lot because they were unexpected in the right way,” Ray explained.
Furthermore, Cena losing doesn’t diminish his legacy; rather, it supports the idea that he gave the business his all and is willing to elevate new stars even as he exits, leaving the door open for memorable retirement storylines.
The Fan Factor: What Do WWE Viewers Want?
Fan reaction has been mixed but passionate. Many longtime WWE fans want to see Cena win his final match to celebrate his unmatched contributions. Others, particularly newer audiences, are keen to see a passing-of-the-torch moment that could catapult a new face into superstardom.
Social media polls and wrestling forums show names like Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins, and even Logan Paul (whom Cena recently faced) popping up as potential final opponents, indicating diverse opinions on how the farewell should unfold.
What Comes Next for John Cena After Wrestling?
While the in-ring chapter closes, Cena’s WWE involvement is far from over. Sources confirm he will take on more ambassadorial and media roles within WWE, potentially linked to the new Raw on Netflix project launching in 2025. Cena’s charisma and crossover appeal in Hollywood position him as a figure who can enhance WWE’s global brand beyond wrestling matches.
Final Thoughts: Cena’s Legacy and the Ultimate Send-Off
As Cena’s retirement match approaches, the debate about who he should face and whether he should win continues to captivate the pro wrestling world. Bully Ray’s insights shine a light on the creative balancing act WWE faces: honoring a legend while crafting an electrifying and meaningful conclusion.
A WWE insider summarized it best, “Cena’s last match will be about legacy, respect, and storytelling. Whoever steps into the ring against him, and whatever the outcome, it will be a landmark moment for WWE history.”
Fans and industry figures alike eagerly await WWE’s official announcement, knowing they’ll witness the closing chapter of one of pro wrestling’s most iconic careers.
