During a recent live Q&A session at the 2025 Chicago Fan Expo, John Cena candidly reflected on his legendary WWE career, sharing insights on his bond with Chicago’s wrestling fans, his famous rivalry with CM Punk, and the WWE legend he most wished to face in the ring. The session provided rare personal glimpses from one of WWE’s most iconic figures.
Cena’s Affection for Wrestling in Chicago
John Cena emphasized his deep connection to performing in Chicago throughout his career. Known for its passionate fanbase, Chicago holds a unique place in Cena’s heart, epitomizing the kind of fervent audience every wrestler dreams of performing for. “[Chicago crowds] just bring something special every time I’m there. The energy, the intensity—they’re relatable and loud, and that makes every match feel important,” Cena shared during the event.
This appreciation for Chicago’s wrestling environment adds context to why several memorable moments in Cena’s career are tied to the city, including his storied encounters with CM Punk.
Revisiting the Rivalry: Cena vs. CM Punk
One of the most compelling moments of the Q&A was Cena’s discussion about his feud with CM Punk, a rivalry that WWE fans often rank among the most intense and memorable of the modern era. The two shared a defining moment at the 2011 Money in the Bank pay-per-view, a match still celebrated for its storytelling and electric crowd response.
Cena expressed some regret that their rivalry could not have been extended further, primarily due to CM Punk’s lengthy break from in-ring competition. “I wish CM Punk didn’t have to take all that time off because we could’ve had some more matches, and I think the fans would’ve loved that,” Cena noted, acknowledging the missed opportunities for further memorable clashes[2].
A WWE insider said, “Their dynamic was perfect yin and yang — Cena’s eternal hustle and loyalty clashing with Punk’s rebellious, ‘best in the world’ persona. It’s no surprise that fans still talk about their bouts years later.” The insider added that both men brought out the best in one another in the ring, elevating WWE’s storytelling at that time.
Even after Punk’s return to WWE in recent years, the pair’s interactions have been eagerly anticipated but sporadic, partly due to separate creative directions and storylines. Their rivalry is remembered as a pivotal chapter in WWE’s competitive narrative, embodying both personal conflict and broader ideological differences within the company’s storytelling fabric.
The WWE Legend Cena Wishes He Could Have Wrestled
When asked about WWE legends he never had the chance to face, John Cena revealed a heartfelt answer. His longtime dream opponent: the late Andre The Giant. Cena admires Andre not only for his unparalleled size and strength but also for his legendary presence and pioneering contributions to professional wrestling.
Cena explained, “Andre was so much more than a wrestler; he was a legend who helped shape the entire industry. Wrestling him would’ve been an incredible experience, something special I always wished for but never got the chance to do.”
This sentiment sheds light on how Cena views the past generations of wrestling stars with reverence, recognizing their impact on today’s wrestling landscape. “Some of those legends were just on a whole different level. Fighting them, even just once, would have been unforgettable,” Cena added.
Context: A Career Built on Rivalries and Respect
John Cena’s career is defined by his ability to engage fans through compelling rivalries and his embodiment of WWE values: hustle, loyalty, and respect. His feud with CM Punk exemplified this perfectly, with two contrasting characters forcing each other to deliver their best work. Their Money in the Bank match, frequently rated above 9.7/10 by wrestling fans and critics, remains a testament to their chemistry and storytelling prowess[4].
However, as one wrestling analyst pointed out, “The timing of their extended rivalry was challenging. Punk’s time off and concurrent feuds on both sides sometimes diluted the momentum. Still, the legacy they built in a relatively short span is remarkable and continues to influence WWE storytelling today”[1].
Looking Ahead: Cena’s Legacy and Future Aspirations
Although John Cena has been dividing time between acting and wrestling, his passion for the business remains strong. The Q&A revealed his ongoing interest in innovative matches and fresh storylines, especially those that honor wrestling’s greats and introduce new generations to the legacy of legends like Andre The Giant.
A WWE insider close to creative shared, “Cena’s involvement whenever he appears always brings a sense of authenticity and excitement. He respects the history but looks forward, hoping to inspire future stars and fans alike.”
John Cena’s reflections at the 2025 Chicago Fan Expo reaffirm his status not only as a WWE icon but also as a heartfelt ambassador for pro wrestling’s rich history and future. Fans longing for the return of classic feuds or dream matchups involving legends like Andre The Giant have plenty to look forward to—whether in nostalgia or new chapters waiting to be written.