As WWE’s iconic landscape continues to evolve, former WWE Champion Drew McIntyre has made it clear he wants to share the ring — and the mic — with John Cena before the 16-time world champion officially retires from professional wrestling this December. McIntyre, one of SmackDown’s top stars, has openly expressed his eagerness for a match with Cena, not only to compete physically but also to engage in a memorable promo battle, marking a grand sendoff for Cena’s in-ring career.
Drew McIntyre’s Ambition to Clash With Cena
Drew McIntyre, who has been a dominant figure on WWE SmackDown and a former WWE Champion himself, is aiming to elevate their potential encounter by combining hard-hitting action with sharp verbal exchanges. Sources close to WWE backstage have revealed McIntyre sees this as a career-defining opportunity, both honoring Cena’s legacy and cementing his own place in WWE history.
“Drew has always respected John — not only his wrestling ability but his charisma and promo skills,” shared a WWE insider. “Right now, Drew wants something special — a mix of intense wrestling and a classic promo exchange — something that fans will remember as John’s farewell match.”
This revelation comes amid rumors swirling around Cena’s retirement plans, signaling December 2025 as his final exit from regular competition. Given Cena’s towering influence and star power, a match with McIntyre would certainly generate high anticipation from WWE’s global fanbase.
Recent Encounters and Build-Up
The desire for this dream match is fueled by their recent interactions on WWE programming. In August 2025, Cena teamed with Cody Rhodes to face Drew McIntyre and Logan Paul on SmackDown, showcasing a high-octane tag-team bout where all competitors pushed their limits[1][2][3]. The match ended with high drama, featuring McIntyre hitting a devastating Claymore Kick through a table on Rhodes but not without Cena and Rhodes showing resilience and chemistry.
According to commentary and fan reactions, these encounters rekindled a competitive fire between Cena and McIntyre. While they have shared the ring before, McIntyre is pushing for a one-on-one showdown where both men can fully showcase their skills.
What a Cena vs. McIntyre Match Means for WWE
Such a match would be pivotal not only for the wrestlers involved but for WWE itself. John Cena’s retirement represents the passing of a torch to the next generation. McIntyre, already a prominent champion and leader, stands in prime position to be part of that transition narrative.
Analysts anticipate:
A high-profile, pay-per-view or special event feature: WWE often reserves legendary sendoff matches for marquee events like WrestleMania or Survivor Series.
A promo battle that highlights Cena’s legendary mic skills and McIntyre’s fierce intensity: This promises a storytelling masterclass that could captivate audiences beyond the physical encounter.
Symbolic significance: McIntyre, who rose from a WWE developmental talent to multi-time champion, sharing the ring with Cena symbolizes WWE’s blend of past and present stars shaping the future.
A WWE creative source added, “They want something meaningful for the fans. WWE is brainstorming ways to build this up smartly with promos and segments leading to the big showdown. It’s not just a match but a narrative they want to build emotionally.”
Cena’s Legacy and Retirement Plans
John Cena’s career spans over two decades, with countless WWE Championships, memorable rivalries, and crossover fame in Hollywood. His limited in-ring schedule over recent years highlights his transition towards acting and media but his competitive spirit remains undeniable.
In his own words during recent promos and interviews, Cena hinted at closing the chapter on wrestling by the end of 2025, aiming to leave the industry on his own terms — ideally in a match that celebrates his legacy.
“We’ve heard from those close to Cena,” said a wrestling journalist. “He wants to bow out with dignity, and a one-on-one against Drew is exactly that: a competitive, respectful match with someone he trusts to give it his all.”
Fan and Industry Reaction
Fans have eagerly responded to the prospect of a Cena vs. McIntyre match, flooding social media with support and speculation about where and when this epic battle might take place. Wrestling forums buzz with ideas ranging from a classic pay-per-view confrontation to a multi-week storyline culminating at WrestleMania 41.
Industry veterans praise McIntyre’s candid ambition, noting it shows his desire to test himself against one of WWE’s all-time greats.
“Drew’s not one to shy away from big challenges,” said a former WWE star. “Taking Cena on, especially in what could be the final match of John’s career, is bold and fitting. It puts Drew in the spotlight as the ‘next face’ of WWE.”
What to Expect Moving Forward
WWE is expected to subtly build this storyline in the coming months. Fans should watch for escalating promo segments on SmackDown, public interviews with both wrestlers hinting at the challenge, and potential contract signing or in-ring confrontations.
Given WWE’s penchant for long-term storytelling, the arrival of this highly anticipated showdown could mark one of the most memorable moments of 2025 and the twilight of Cena’s illustrious wrestling career.
Backstage sources have confirmed that the company views Cena’s retirement bout as a top priority and is working on creating an atmosphere where McIntyre can shine alongside Cena during this final act.
For WWE fans worldwide, the coming months promise heightened drama, emotional promos, and a match for the ages — a true celebration of two extraordinary careers colliding in the ring one last time.