The WWE Universe was treated to a historic moment on the November 10, 2025, episode of Monday Night Raw, as John Cena finally captured the Intercontinental Championship for the first time in his legendary career. The victory not only marked a new chapter in Cena’s storied legacy but also sparked a wave of nostalgia and camaraderie across the wrestling world. Most notably, longtime rival and current World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk took to social media to share a heartfelt tribute to Cena, signaling a thaw in their long-standing rivalry.
Cena’s Historic IC Title Win
John Cena’s journey to the Intercontinental Championship has been years in the making. Despite being a 17-time World Champion and one of the most decorated superstars in WWE history, the Intercontinental Title remained the one major accolade missing from his resume. That all changed on the November 10 episode of Raw, when Cena defeated a tough field to claim the gold.
The match was a hard-fought battle, with Cena overcoming several near-falls and dramatic moments. At one point, the referee was knocked down, and Cena’s signature moves were no-sold by his opponent. But in the end, Cena hit his patented Attitude Adjustment and followed up with a Frog Splash to secure the victory. The crowd erupted as Cena held the Intercontinental Championship aloft, finally completing his Grand Slam status.
According to a WWE insider, “John’s win was meant to be a celebration of his legacy. The creative team wanted to give him a moment that felt earned and meaningful, not just a passing of the torch. The crowd’s reaction was electric, and even some of the younger talent backstage were moved by the moment.”
Punk’s Tribute: A Moment of Unity
In the aftermath of Cena’s victory, CM Punk, who has had a storied and often contentious relationship with Cena, took to social media to share a photo of himself, Cena, and Cody Rhodes, all displaying their championship gold. The image, believed to have been taken in Boston, quickly went viral among fans.
Punk’s caption was equally impactful. He expressed his gratitude to Cena for the stories, memories, and lessons they’ve shared over the years. “Thank you for the stories, the memories, and the lessons,” Punk wrote. “Thank you for drawing the biggest crowds and making every moment count. This is what it’s all about.”
Sources close to Cody Rhodes revealed that the photo was taken during a private gathering after the show. “It was a spontaneous moment,” said the source. “They were just hanging out, talking about old times, and someone suggested they take a picture with their titles. It wasn’t planned, but it meant a lot to everyone involved.”
A Rivalry Transformed
The relationship between John Cena and CM Punk has been one of the most defining rivalries in WWE history. From their early days in the mid-2000s to their epic matches at Money in the Bank 2011 and SummerSlam 2013, their battles have shaped the landscape of professional wrestling. Over the years, their rivalry has been marked by intense competition, personal animosity, and mutual respect.
However, recent events suggest that the tension between them has eased. Punk’s tribute to Cena is seen as a sign of reconciliation and mutual respect. “It’s not just about the titles,” said the WWE insider. “It’s about the legacy they’ve both built and the impact they’ve had on the industry. They’ve both grown as individuals and as professionals.”
The Grand Slam Moment
Cena’s victory also solidified his status as a Grand Slam Champion, a feat achieved by only a select few in WWE history. The Grand Slam requires a wrestler to win the WWE Championship, World Heavyweight Championship, Intercontinental Championship, and United States Championship, as well as one of the tag team titles.
With this win, Cena joins an elite group of wrestlers who have achieved the Grand Slam, including Triple H, Shawn Michaels, and Edge. “It’s a testament to John’s longevity and versatility,” said the WWE insider. “He’s been able to adapt and excel in every role he’s taken on, from singles competition to tag team wrestling.”
What’s Next for Cena and Punk?
As Cena prepares for his final Raw appearance at Madison Square Garden, speculation is mounting about who will face him in what could be a historic match. Options include Punk, Rhodes, and other top stars, but nothing has been confirmed yet.
For Punk, the focus remains on his World Heavyweight Championship reign and his ongoing rivalry with other top contenders. However, the recent show of unity with Cena has fans wondering if a dream match between the two could be on the horizon.
“Anything is possible in WWE,” said the WWE insider. “John and CM have a lot of history, and they both know how to put on a show. If they do face off again, it would be a moment for the ages.”
A Legacy of Respect
The emotional tribute from CM Punk to John Cena is more than just a social media post; it’s a symbol of the respect and admiration that exists between two of the greatest wrestlers of all time. Their rivalry has pushed each other to new heights, and their mutual respect is a testament to the spirit of professional wrestling.
As Cena continues to add to his legacy and Punk defends his World Heavyweight Championship, fans can look forward to more memorable moments from these two icons. The wrestling world is richer for their contributions, and their stories will continue to inspire future generations of superstars.
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