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Kurt Angle Pays Tribute To John Cena Ahead Of WWE Retirement

By John Canton • Published Dec 13, 2025 10:10 EST
John Cena Ruthless Aggression Angle

John Cena’s first WWE opponent, Kurt Angle, commented on the day of Cena’s in-ring retirement.

The June 27, 2002 edition of WWE SmackDown was John Cena’s debut match on the main roster. Cena was under contract for about two years before that, he was known as The Prototype in OVW and eventually made his way to the main roster.

Kurt Angle had been on the WWE main roster for less than three years, but he was firmly established as an Olympic Gold Medalist, a former WWE Champion, and arguably the best wrestler in the world.

As Angle stood in the ring for an open challenge, a rookie marched down to the ring to fight Angle. When Kurt asked who he was, the man said he was John Cena. Angle asked Cena what quality he possesses that makes him think he can face the very best in the business? Cena: “Ruthless Aggression!” Cena punched Angle, and the match was on.

It was a good match that saw Angle get the win as expected, but Cena more than held his own. Over the next three years, Cena went from rising star to WWE Champion, beating Angle several times along the way.

When Kurt Angle was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2017, John Cena was there to induct him because they will always be linked.

Kurt Angle Wishes John Cena Well In His WWE Retirement

On December 13th at Saturday Night’s Main Event, John Cena will compete in his final WWE match against Gunther. Many people are paying tribute to Cena because of his amazing 23-year run in WWE.

Writing on social media, Kurt Angle had a message for his pal Cena.

Who in the hell are you?
I’m John Cena.

From his unforgettable moments in the ring to his inspiring presence outside of it, John Cena has truly left an indelible mark on the world of sports entertainment. I am proud to have been part of his journey, and what a ride it has been for him. His dedication, resilience, and passion have inspired countless fans and peers alike.

As he embarks on his well-deserved retirement, I wish him all the best in the next chapter of his life. Enjoy your last ride, John….a legend forever.

Welcome to retirement, my friend.

#JohnCena #Legend #WWE #Retirement #Respect

After 11 years away from WWE, Kurt Angle returned to the company in 2017. He wrestled some matches, but not on a full-time basis. When Angle retired at WrestleMania 35 in 2019, he wanted to face Cena in his final match, but Vince McMahon wanted it to be Baron Corbin, so that’s who it was.

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