John Cena Reveals The One Thing He Never Did In 23-Year WWE Career

John Cena made his WWE debut on June 27, 2002, answering Kurt Angle’s open challenge. Over the span of 23 years, Cena has evolved from a promising newcomer to one of WWE’s most iconic figures, earning 17 world championships and becoming a global star.

Throughout his career, Cena’s work ethic and humility have stood out as defining traits. As he embarks on his retirement tour in 2025, Cena reflects on a unique aspect of his journey.

At SummerSlam post-show, WWE Chief Creative Officer Triple H revealed that John Cena requested to face Brock Lesnar as part of his retirement tour, calling it the top item on Cena’s “wishlist” for his farewell run. However, Cena disputed the notion that he personally selects his opponents on Adam’s Apple.

John Cena Has Never Chosen His Opponents In WWE

John Cena recently had an interview with The Boston Herald’s Justin Barrasso. During their conversation, Barrasso brought up the topic of The Beast Incarnate potentially being his final opponent. Cena reiterated that despite decades of matches and rivalries, he has never chosen his opponents in WWE. He added that whoever challenges him for his last match, he intends to give it his all.

“I’ve been doing this for 23 years, and I’ve never once chosen my opponent. I’ve always lived by the philosophy that life will give you opportunities every single day, and you have to do the best you can every single day with what life gives you. So whoever challenges me for that last match, I’m going to give it my best shot,” he said. [H/T Boston Herald]

The Conqueror made a shocking return to WWE after two years at the SummerSlam 2025 premium live event on August 3, where he attacked Big Match John and laid him out with an F-5.