John Cena and AJ Styles delivered a highly acclaimed match at WWE Crown Jewel 2025, earning praise even from WWE legend The Undertaker. Cena emerged victorious in a memorable contest that honored the legacy of their careers and the wrestling world.
A Historic Encounter at WWE Crown Jewel 2025
The singles match between John Cena and AJ Styles was one of the most anticipated bouts of the evening. Both superstars, though nearing the twilight of their in-ring careers, showcased why they are considered among the greatest performers of their era. Their encounter was as much a tribute to their longstanding rivalry as it was a masterclass in professional wrestling.
Throughout the match, Cena and Styles incorporated signature moves and respectful nods to iconic wrestlers who influenced their careers. John Cena performed the legendary Sister Abigail finisher, a tribute to the late Bray Wyatt, which ignited a profound emotional response from the crowd. AJ Styles, for his part, pulled from his classic bouts, referencing maneuvers from his matches against the likes of Christopher Daniels and Samoa Joe.
Emotional and Technical Excellence
The match was peppered with near-falls and false finishes, holding the audience in suspense for the entire duration. According to wrestling analysts, despite both men not being in their physical prime, the performance exceeded expectations and served as a fitting chapter in their competitive saga.
One moment that stood out was Cena’s use of The Undertaker’s own signature Tombstone Piledriver, which galvanized the crowd further and cemented the respect between the two competitors. The intensity and mutual respect culminated in a post-match handshake, underlining the sportsmanship and admiration that has always characterized their rivalry.
The Undertaker’s Public Praise
Following the event, The Undertaker took to his official social media accounts to commend Cena and Styles for their performance. In his message, he highlighted the match as a “true testament to the spirit of wrestling” and praised both men for delivering an emotional and high-quality contest befitting the prestige of WWE Crown Jewel.
A WWE insider shared, “The Undertaker was genuinely impressed. He mentioned backstage how the match brought back memories of his own iconic bouts and appreciated the way Cena and Styles paid homage to wrestling’s greats, including his influence”.
Backstage Reactions and Industry Impact
Sources close to WWE locker room confirm that backstage reactions were overwhelmingly positive. Wrestlers and officials alike were in awe of the performers’ ability to connect with the audience on such a deep level, considering the physical demands and pressures of performing on a major international stage.
One veteran WWE agent noted, “This wasn’t just a match; it was a celebration of WWE’s history with two of its most respected figures reminding everyone what this business is about respect, passion, and storytelling.”