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John Cena Issues Statement After Blockbuster Announcement At WWE Backlash

By Gaurav Singh • Published May 11, 2026 04:59 EDT
John Cena WWE
John Cena at WWE Backlash (Image Source-WWE.com)

Following his huge announcement at WWE Backlash 2026, John Cena sent a social media message regarding the same.

John Cena announced his retirement from in-ring competition after a retirement tour throughout 2025 and his last match against Gunther in December last year. Nonetheless, the Leader of Cenation continues to make sporadic appearances in WWE in order to interact with fans. He showed up at WrestleMania 42 as the host of the Show of Shows.

John Cena made an appearance during the recent Backlash 2026 PLE to make a special announcement as well. Cena announced ‘The John Cena Classic,’ in which talents from NXT and the main roster will compete for a Championship that will be introduced soon. Interestingly, the champion will be voted on by the fans, regardless of winning or losing in the Classic.

John Cena on his big announcement at WWE Backlash

After Cena announced ‘The John Cena Classic’ at Backlash, he took to the X social media platform, addressing the Classic and the risks involved with it. He also urged fans to tune in to it despite the risks:

When asked to give advice, especially with WWE, I often reply ‘be authentic’ ‘do not fear failure’ ‘know your why.’ The John Cena Classic may not be perfect by any means yet it’s authentically me (I am not perfect either) and reflects my values and beliefs. I’m aware that there is the risk it might be a total failure and I’m not afraid of that and believe it’s still worth stepping ‘in the arena.'”

Cena further explained why he announced ‘The John Cena Classic’ and thanked the WWE for the opportunity. The Leader of Cenation also revealed that more details regarding the Classic will be coming out soon:

My ‘why’ in WWE is to consistently be as useful as possible for as long as possible, with my in ring career at an end, my ‘why’ is to use whatever energy or relevance I have left in hopes to create a launchpad of opportunity for all talent to show their skills while simultaneously creating a unique experience for our dedicated fan base. At the very least.. we all learn something At the very best.. we all create something I’m ready for wherever the road takes us. Thank you WWE for this opportunity More details to come as we figure all this out! Sincerely, John Cena”

It remains to be seen when ‘The John Cena Classic’ title will be unveiled.

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