At WWE Crown Jewel 2025, wrestling fans were treated to a highly anticipated singles match featuring two of the industry’s most iconic figures John Cena and AJ Styles. In what many insiders are already calling an instant classic, 17-time World Champion Cena edged out Styles in a fiercely competitive bout that drew praise for its storytelling, athleticism, and respectful nods to wrestling legends. This encounter not only highlighted Cena’s ongoing retirement tour but also reinforced AJ Styles’ status as one of the greatest performers of his generation.
A Match Years in the Making
Returning to face each other after more than seven years, Cena and Styles delivered a meticulously paced match that thrilled the WWE Universe both live and via streaming platforms like ESPN. Fans witnessed an array of high-impact moves and technical exchanges that showcased the deep respect these competitors hold for the craft and each other.
According to sources close to WWE production, the match was crafted with input from both stars, emphasizing a blend of nostalgia and fresh drama. “John wanted this to be a match that reminded everyone why wrestling is a mix of storytelling and athleticism,” a WWE insider shared. “AJ brought his usual precision and passion. Together, they created magic in the ring.”
Legendary Move Set and Tribute Moments
One of the most talked-about aspects of the match was the incorporation of signature finishing moves inspired by WWE legends. Fans were treated to Cena and Styles exchanging iconic maneuvers such as:
- Sister Abigail (a devastating spinning facebuster typically associated with Bray Wyatt)
- Tombstone Piledriver (legendary move of The Undertaker)
- Angel’s Wings (a finisher invented by AJ Styles himself)
These tributes elevated the bout, adding layers of homage and history that resonated strongly with the audience. In fact, the execution of these moves was near flawless, underscoring the professionalism and respect both performers have for WWE’s storied past.
The Action: A Display of Power and Heart
Detailing the flow of the contest, highlights include John Cena demonstrating his trademark resilience by escaping AJ’s signature Styles Clash submission attempt and countering with his Attitude Adjustment. Styles responded with impressive offense such as a perfectly executed Phenomenal Forearm and a 450 Splash, keeping the match balanced and unpredictable.
The climax saw Cena hitting a devastating Tombstone Piledriver on Styles, sealing the victory to the delight of Crown Jewel’s global audience. The atmosphere was electric, with chants and applause echoing throughout the arena as Cena added another memorable win to his legendary career.
Behind the Scenes: The Match’s Significance
This bout takes on heightened importance as part of John Cena’s farewell run in WWE. Moving towards the culmination of his in-ring career, this match was designed not only as a showcase for Cena but also as a platform for Styles to reinforce his standing at the top of WWE’s roster.
According to a WWE source familiar with the booking, the company sought to balance celebrating Cena’s legacy with showcasing the future of the company. “The creative team really put their faith in AJ to carry the torch,” the source explained. “This match was the perfect way to honor Cena’s incredible journey while passing the spotlight forward.”
Fan and Critical Reception
The WWE Universe has flooded social media and wrestling forums with praise for the match, applauding both competitors for their athleticism and ability to tell a gripping story in the ring. Experts in wrestling journalism have also highlighted this match as a standout on the Crown Jewel card, noting its technical excellence and emotional weight.
WWE.com emphasized the significance of the encounter in its event coverage, describing it as “a classic encounter showcasing the finesse and heart of two of WWE’s finest athletes”. YouTube highlight videos have garnered hundreds of thousands of views within days, reflecting the widespread enthusiasm for this clash.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for Cena and Styles
While John Cena’s retirement tour continues, this win adds to the narrative of his impressive swan song within WWE. For AJ Styles, this high-profile performance solidifies his position as a perennial main event caliber superstar who can deliver under the brightest spotlight.
Industry observers speculate a future rematch is possible, given the chemistry displayed and crowd reaction to this first encounter in years. Meanwhile, Cena continues to tease possible appearances beyond active wrestling, from commentary roles to occasional in-ring spots.
Final Thoughts: A Match for the Ages
The John Cena vs. AJ Styles showdown at WWE Crown Jewel 2025 stands as a testament to what professional wrestling can achieve at its best: a blend of sports, storytelling, and respect for legacy. As WWE moves forward, matches like this provide a bridge between eras, connecting fans of all generations.
A WWE insider summarized it well: “This wasn’t just a match; it was a celebration of what wrestling means to millions around the world. Both Cena and Styles gave their all, reminding everyone why they’re legends.”