Logan Paul delivered high praise for WWE legend John Cena after their epic showdown at WWE Clash in Paris, stating that Cena wrestles better than Picasso paints. Despite not securing a victory, Paul framed the match as a defining moment in his WWE journey and acknowledged Cena’s artistry inside the ring as nothing short of masterful.
Clash in Paris: A Career-Defining Battle
The highly anticipated match at WWE Clash in Paris on August 31, 2025, was one of the most talked-about moments of John Cena’s ongoing retirement tour. Cena, a 17-time world champion and one of WWE’s greatest icons, faced off against social media superstar and rising WWE star Logan Paul in front of an enthusiastic crowd of over 30,000 fans.
Although Cena secured the win with his patented Attitude Adjustment finisher, the contest was fiercely competitive and showcased some rare and physically demanding maneuvers from both men. Logan Paul proved he belongs in the WWE spotlight, trading blow for blow with Cena in a match that lasted nearly an hour[1][3].
Logan Paul’s Respect for Cena’s Craft
In the immediate aftermath, Logan Paul reflected on the match’s significance. “John Cena wrestles better than Picasso paints,” Paul said in an interview, capturing the immense respect he has for Cena’s in-ring storytelling and technique. Logan’s comment highlighted that wrestling, much like painting, is an art form with subtlety, precision, and passion.
A WWE insider told Ringside News that this sentiment was echoed backstage among talent and officials alike. “Everyone knew Logan was going to come in swinging, but after the match, even the toughest veterans were acknowledging just how artistic and technically brilliant Cena’s performance was,” the source revealed. “Cena isn’t just a wrestler; he’s a craftsman, and Logan got a front-row seat to that mastery”[1].
Logan Paul’s WWE Rise and Stil Growth
Logan Paul’s WWE career has been marked by rapid progress and notable victories over established stars like AJ Styles, Rey Mysterio, Kevin Owens, and The Miz. Yet, a win over Cena has remained elusive—until now, as Paul’s performance in Paris proved his ability to hang with one of the all-time greats.
Paul embraced the challenge willingly, having first stepped up on SmackDown after Cena issued an open retirement tour challenge following his loss at SummerSlam. Though their initial confrontation led to a tag team match and some chaotic brawling, the Paris match was the official culmination of their rivalry[1][2].
According to sources close to WWE management, the company views Paul’s match with Cena as a pivotal moment helping to transition Cena’s legacy while elevating Paul’s stature within the roster. Paul’s ease performing in front of large crowds and willingness to learn the craft of wrestling earned respect from Cena and WWE officials[2].
The Artistry of Wrestling: Cena’s Final European Match
John Cena’s match with Logan Paul in Paris was symbolic in many ways. It marked Cena’s last European battle as part of his farewell tour and showcased why he is considered one of the defining WWE superfans and role models for two decades.
Throughout the match, Cena executed a versatile move set, mixing his classic Attitude Adjustment with technical holds and counters that kept Paul off balance. Even when faced with Paul’s submission attempts, including a version of the Octopus hold and the STF, Cena’s experience and conditioning shone through, allowing him to escape and ultimately dominate[4].
Fans reacted enthusiastically not only to Cena’s performance but also to Paul’s resilience and sportsmanship. The electric atmosphere in Paris reinforced the meaning behind Cena’s “hustle, loyalty, respect” mantra as the WWE Universe bore witness to a battle that bridged generations of wrestling entertainment[2].
Backstage Buzz: Mutual Respect and Legacy Building
Sources close to Cody Rhodes, who was involved in the buildup and aftermath of the Cena-Paul feud, noted that backstage conversations focused on respect and legacy.
“As much as the show is about competition, it’s also about honoring what comes before you,” a WWE insider commented. “Cena showed Logan what it means to be a true pro, and Logan responded not just as a competitor but as someone eager to build his own legacy.”
The source added that Cena’s retirement tour has become as much about mentorship and passing the torch as it is about delivering memorable in-ring moments. “Logan understood the significance of this match and embraced it fully,” the insider said[1].
What’s Next for Logan Paul and John Cena?
While Cena’s tour nears its end, with the Paris match being one of his last big European showdowns, Logan Paul looks forward to continuing his WWE ascent. Paul’s focus is now on refining his in-ring skills and potentially capturing his first major WWE title in the future.
For Cena, the match with Paul stands as an iconic part of his farewell journey — a final showcase of his wrestling artistry that reminded fans why he is one of WWE’s greatest legends. His victory in Paris marked the 99th win of his premium live event career, a testament to his enduring excellence[1].
Final Thoughts
Logan Paul’s statement that “John Cena wrestles better than Picasso paints” puts into perspective the high regard wrestlers hold for the craft and for Cena’s status as an artist in the ring. Their match was more than just competition; it was a celebration of wrestling as a physical and creative performance.
The Paris crowd and fans worldwide witnessed a battle worthy of the WWE’s grand stages — one that balanced legacy, emerging talent, and the spirit of competition. As Cena’s retirement tour progresses, moments like this underscore why Cena will forever be a defining figure in wrestling history, while Logan Paul’s star continues to rise.
Sources close to WWE management and talent interviewed by Ringside News and Bleacher Report contributed insights to this article.