The wrestling world is buzzing with anticipation as John Cena officially announced a 16-man tournament to determine his final opponent at the upcoming Saturday Night’s Main Event in Washington, D.C., on December 13, 2025. The “Last Time Is Now Tournament” will feature competitors from Raw, SmackDown, NXT, and even surprise entrants from outside WWE, setting the stage for one of the most dramatic chapters in Cena’s legendary career.
With the field wide open and speculation running rampant, former WWE star Maven has stepped forward with his own pick for who should face Cena in what could be the most emotional match of his career.
Maven’s Bold Choice: Bron Breakker
Maven, best known for winning the inaugural season of WWE Tough Enough and for his outspoken takes on the industry, has thrown his support behind rising star Bron Breakker. In a recent interview, Maven explained that Breakker represents the future of WWE and embodies the same energy and intensity that Cena brought to the ring during his early years.
“Bron Breakker is the perfect bridge between the past and the future,” Maven said. “He’s got the athleticism, the charisma, and the hunger that reminds me of John when he first came in. If Cena wants to pass the torch, there’s no better person to do it than Bron.”
Maven’s endorsement comes at a time when Breakker is already being positioned as a top-tier talent in WWE. The two-time NXT Champion has quickly become a fan favorite thanks to his explosive style and undeniable presence. With Cena’s final match set to be a symbolic passing of the torch, Maven believes Breakker is the ideal candidate to carry WWE into the next era.
The Tournament Format: Who’s In, Who’s Out?
Cena’s announcement on the November 2, 2025, episode of Raw revealed that the 16-man tournament will kick off the following week from his hometown of Boston. The field will be chosen at random, ensuring a mix of established stars and fresh faces. Competitors from Raw, SmackDown, and NXT will be included, and Cena even hinted at the possibility of surprise entrants from outside WWE.
According to a WWE insider, the company is considering bringing in a few surprise names to add extra drama to the tournament. “There’s talk about bringing in a couple of legends or even a surprise indie star,” the insider revealed. “They want this to be a true celebration of Cena’s career, so expect some curveballs.”
The tournament will culminate at Saturday Night’s Main Event in Washington, D.C., where the winner will face Cena in what is expected to be an emotional and historic match. Cena emphasized that his final opponent will not be handpicked but will be “hard earned,” adding to the stakes and excitement.
Why Bron Breakker Makes Sense
Maven’s pick of Bron Breakker is not just about nostalgia or personal preference; it’s about the bigger picture. Breakker, the son of WWE Hall of Famer Rick Steiner, has already proven himself as a dominant force in NXT. His combination of power, speed, and charisma has drawn comparisons to Cena’s own early days.
“Bron has the potential to be a generational talent,” Maven said. “He’s got the look, the moves, and the attitude. If Cena wants to leave a lasting legacy, facing Bron would send a powerful message about the future of WWE.”
Breakker’s journey in WWE has been marked by rapid ascension. After winning the NXT Championship twice, he was called up to the main roster earlier this year, where he has continued to impress with his performances. His matches against top stars have showcased his ability to hang with the best, and his popularity with fans has only grown.
The Emotional Stakes
Cena’s final match is expected to be more than just a wrestling contest; it’s a symbolic passing of the torch. For fans who have followed Cena’s career from his debut in 2002 to his current status as a 17-time world champion, the match will be a chance to celebrate his legacy.
Maven believes that facing Breakker would add an extra layer of emotion to the event. “John has always been about inspiring the next generation,” Maven said. “By facing Bron, he’s not just closing his own chapter; he’s opening a new one for WWE.”
The tournament format also ensures that the winner will have earned the right to face Cena, making the match even more meaningful. Whether it’s Breakker or another competitor, the stakes are high, and the pressure will be on for whoever emerges victorious.
What’s Next for the Tournament
With the tournament set to begin next week on Raw, fans are eagerly awaiting the reveal of the full field. The random draw will ensure a mix of established stars and rising talents, creating a sense of unpredictability and excitement.
According to sources close to WWE, the company is planning several surprises throughout the tournament, including potential returns of past stars and unexpected matchups. “They want this to be a true celebration of John Cena’s career,” a source said. “Expect some surprises and some emotional moments.”
As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on Bron Breakker and the other top contenders. With Maven’s endorsement and the support of fans, Breakker is poised to make a strong run in the tournament.
Conclusion: A Legacy in the Making
John Cena’s final match is set to be a historic moment in WWE history. With Maven’s pick of Bron Breakker, the stage is set for a symbolic passing of the torch and a celebration of Cena’s legacy. As the tournament begins and the field is revealed, fans can look forward to an unforgettable journey filled with drama, emotion, and the promise of a new era in WWE.
Whether Breakker emerges as the winner or another star rises to the occasion, one thing is certain: John Cena’s final match will be a moment that wrestling fans will remember for years to come.