WWE fans are on the edge of their seats as the company officially kicked off the “Last Time is Now” tournament on Monday Night Raw, setting the stage for what could be the most dramatic chapter in John Cena’s legendary career. The tournament, designed to determine Cena’s final opponent at the upcoming Saturday Night’s Main Event, has already delivered a pair of blockbuster matchups that promise fireworks and nostalgia in equal measure.
Tournament Begins With Star-Studded Matchups
Raw General Manager Adam Pearce made the official announcement during the November 3 episode, revealing that Damian Priest will face Rusev, while Sheamus will battle Shinsuke Nakamura in the opening round of the “Last Time is Now” tournament. The stakes couldn’t be higher, as the winner of each match will advance to the next stage, inching closer to the ultimate prize: the chance to face John Cena in what could be his final WWE match.
The announcement was met with a thunderous reaction from the live crowd, who have long clamored for a fitting farewell for Cena. With four former champions in the mix, the tournament is shaping up to be a celebration of legacy, resilience, and the enduring spirit of WWE’s biggest stars.
Rusev vs. Damian Priest: Clash of Generations
The first announced bout pits the Bulgarian Brute, Rusev, against the current United States Champion, Damian Priest. Rusev, a three-time world champion and former United States Champion, brings a wealth of experience and a reputation for hard-hitting, no-nonsense wrestling. His return to the spotlight has been one of the most talked-about stories in recent weeks, and fans are eager to see if he can recapture his former glory.
On the other side, Damian Priest represents the new generation of WWE talent. With his athleticism, charisma, and recent success as U.S. Champion, Priest is widely seen as one of the company’s brightest stars. The matchup between these two is a classic clash of old-school grit versus modern flair, and it’s sure to be a must-see contest.
According to a WWE insider, “Rusev’s return has been carefully planned, and WWE wants to make sure he’s positioned as a legitimate threat. Damian Priest is the perfect foil someone who can push Rusev while also elevating his own status.”
Sheamus vs. Shinsuke Nakamura: A Dream Match Realized
The second match is nothing short of a dream pairing: Sheamus, the Celtic Warrior, versus Shinsuke Nakamura, the King of Strong Style. Both men are former WWE Champions and have a storied history of delivering unforgettable matches. Sheamus, known for his hard-hitting style and relentless aggression, has been a mainstay in WWE for over a decade. Nakamura, with his unique blend of striking and technical prowess, has become a fan favorite since his arrival in 2016.
This matchup is particularly intriguing because it’s a rare opportunity for these two to face off in a singles match on a major stage. While they’ve crossed paths in tag team and multi-man matches, a one-on-one showdown promises to be a technical and physical masterpiece.
“WWE has been building toward this match for a while,” said a source close to the booking team. “Both Sheamus and Nakamura have expressed interest in facing each other, and the tournament gives them the perfect platform. Expect a match that will be talked about for years.”
The Road to Saturday Night’s Main Event
The “Last Time is Now” tournament is designed to culminate at Saturday Night’s Main Event, where the winner will finally face John Cena. The stakes couldn’t be higher, as Cena has hinted that this could be his final match in WWE. The tournament format ensures that only the most deserving and resilient competitor will earn the right to share the ring with the 16-time world champion.
WWE’s decision to include four former champions in the opening round speaks to the company’s commitment to making Cena’s farewell a historic event. Each of the participants brings a unique story and a deep connection to Cena’s legacy, whether through past rivalries, friendships, or shared moments in WWE history.
Backstage Buzz and Fan Reactions
Backstage, the atmosphere is electric. According to a WWE insider, “Everyone is feeling the weight of this tournament. John Cena’s career has touched so many people, and everyone wants to be the one to give him a proper send-off. There’s a lot of respect, but also a lot of hunger to win.”
Fans have taken to social media to express their excitement, with hashtags like #LastTimeIsNow and #CenaFarewell trending worldwide. Many are speculating about potential future matchups and the possibility of surprise entrants joining the tournament.
What’s Next for the Tournament?
With the first two matches set, all eyes will be on the outcomes and what they mean for the tournament’s progression. Will Rusev’s experience give him the edge over Priest, or will the younger champion prove he’s ready for the biggest stage? Can Sheamus overcome Nakamura’s technical brilliance, or will the King of Strong Style reign supreme?
As the tournament unfolds, WWE is expected to announce additional matches and possibly introduce new participants. The company has a history of springing surprises during major events, and Cena’s farewell is no exception.
A Farewell for the Ages
John Cena’s career has been defined by moments that transcend wrestling—moments of inspiration, resilience, and connection with fans around the world. The “Last Time is Now” tournament is not just about determining his final opponent; it’s about celebrating his legacy and the impact he’s had on WWE and the global wrestling community.
As the tournament heats up and the stakes rise, one thing is certain: John Cena’s final chapter will be unforgettable. Whether it’s Rusev, Priest, Sheamus, or Nakamura who emerges victorious, the journey to Saturday Night’s Main Event promises to be a fitting tribute to one of the greatest Superstars of all time.
Stay tuned to WWE programming for more updates on the “Last Time is Now” tournament, and get ready for a series of matches that will go down in history.