WWE fans are buzzing with excitement as a former WWE World Heavyweight Champion is slated to make a high-profile return on WWE Raw, entering the highly anticipated “Last Time Is Now” tournament. This tournament, announced by John Cena as part of his farewell arc, is designed to crown his final opponent before he steps away from full-time competition. Notably, the returning star will face off against one of WWE NXT’s top young talents, billed as a “Young OG” of the brand, in a dream matchup that bridges WWE’s past and its future.
Gunther’s Return Marks a Major Boost for WWE Raw
According to multiple backstage sources, the returning former WWE World Champion is none other than Gunther, known for his dominant reign as WWE Intercontinental Champion and a storied past in NXT and main roster dominance. Gunther’s return is shaping up to be one of the marquee moments of the tournament, putting him on the collision path with one of NXT’s brightest emerging stars, Jevon Evans. This match symbolizes a rare blend of WWE’s established elite facing off against the promising new generation still honing their craft in NXT.
A WWE insider told this publication, “Gunther’s return is strategic — WWE wants to build significant hype around the tournament by involving a proven star with a substantial fan following and championship pedigree. Pairing him with a rising star like Evans makes the stakes even higher and creates a compelling storyline for fans who appreciate both wrestling tradition and fresh talent.”
The “Last Time Is Now” Tournament: Setting the Scene for Cena’s Final Battle
The tournament itself is designed to showcase top WWE talent from various brands, with several key competitors already confirmed including The Miz, Jey Uso, LA Knight, Rusev, Damian Priest, Shinsuke Nakamura, and Sheamus. The format features eight first-round matches culminating in a final showdown where John Cena will face his last WWE opponent.
This event is seen as a farewell tour for John Cena, who has been a cornerstone of WWE for nearly two decades and has decided to step back from full-time in-ring competition. The tournament emphasizes legacy and competition, capping Cena’s storied career with a match that connects WWE’s present and future stars.
The Significance of the Gunther vs. Jevon Evans Match
Gunther represents a dominant force in WWE, having held championship glory and gained respect worldwide for his hard-hitting style and charisma. Jevon Evans, described backstage as a “Young OG,” is among the rising NXT stars who have shown tremendous potential and sparked fan interest with their performances. Their clash is expected to be one of the most talked-about matches in the tournament, offering a contrasting dynamic of experience versus youthful ambition.
Industry observers note that this pairing is a calculated move by WWE to spotlight NXT’s evolution while leaning on Gunther’s name recognition to bring mainstream attention to the tournament. According to sources familiar with WWE’s plans, “The match is more than just a tournament bout — it’s a statement that WWE is serious about pushing fresh talent against established giants. Gunther versus Evans could be a blueprint for future NXT-to-main-roster transitions.”
What Fans Can Expect from the Tournament
The “Last Time Is Now” tournament promises a blend of nostalgia and fresh excitement. With many veteran names and upcoming stars enrolled, WWE is positioning this event as a marquee spectacle on Raw and beyond. Fans can anticipate:
- High-stakes bouts filled with storytelling that honors Cena’s legacy
- Showcasing rising talent from NXT alongside main roster veterans
- Potential for surprise appearances and storyline twists
- Moments of emotional resonance as Cena’s career winds down
Gunther’s involvement adds layers of prestige and competitiveness, cementing the tournament as a serious pro wrestling event rather than a simple farewell gimmick.
Behind the Scenes: WWE’s Strategic Booking
Sources close to WWE creative reveal the Return of Gunther was carefully planned several months ago to align with Cena’s farewell run. One insider explained, “Bringing Gunther back now leverages his growing star power in Europe and the United States. His technical prowess and commanding presence will provide the perfect foil for Cena’s farewell opponent, and equally, his match with Evans highlights WWE’s commitment to developing top-tier talent in NXT.”
WWE officials view the tournament as a pivotal moment to bridge fanbases and reinvigorate interest in Raw as well as NXT, giving fans multiple must-watch matches in the lead-up to Cena’s final bouts.
Looking Ahead: Impact on WWE’s Future Landscape
Gunther’s return and participation in the tournament may mark the beginning of a new chapter for him on WWE Raw or SmackDown, depending on booking decisions after the tournament concludes. For Jevon Evans, this is a golden opportunity to elevate his status by sharing the ring with a former world champion in a widely publicized event.
The tournament’s outcomes could shape WWE’s storylines heading into 2026, with potential title shots or feuds emerging for its standout performers.
With the excitement building, WWE fans should mark their calendars for Raw’s upcoming shows featuring the “Last Time Is Now” tournament. Gunther’s return and the battle against Jevon Evans symbolize a key moment of competition and transition for WWE, anchoring John Cena’s farewell road with a high-quality match that honors both his legacy and WWE’s evolving future.