The 17-time World Champion Ends Seven-Year Title Drought With Stunning Victory Over Cody Rhodes in Las Vegas
In an electrifying WrestleMania 41 main event at Allegiant Stadium, John Cena achieved the unthinkable: he became the first-ever 17-time World Champion, surpassing WWE legend Ric Flair’s long-standing record. Facing Cody Rhodes in a battle that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Cena’s victory marks a career-defining moment and a powerful statement in what is his final year inside the squared circle.
A Clash of Generations
The energy inside the stadium was electric from the opening bell. Cena and Rhodes, representing two distinct eras of WWE, wasted no time establishing intensity. Their initial lock-ups showcased mind games and frustration, as Cena used early evasions to rattle the reigning champion.
Cena eventually gained the upper hand with a flurry of classic offense—stomps, a big boot, and a spinning DDT reminiscent of his early rise in WWE. Rhodes, however, countered with sharp aerials and crisp counters, reminding everyone why he was holding the Undisputed WWE Championship.
Back-and-Forth Drama
What followed was a rollercoaster of near-falls and signature spots. Cena hit a five-knuckle shuffle and a thunderous Attitude Adjustment, only for Rhodes to kick out. Rhodes then nailed a top-rope Cody Cutter, followed by an attempted Cross Rhodes, but Cena once again countered with another AA and locked in the STF.
Key Moments:
- Cena hits multiple AAs throughout the match.
- Rhodes delivers a Cody Cutter and Cross Rhodes.
- Referee gets knocked out mid-match, adding chaos.
When Rhodes finally delivered the Cross Rhodes, the referee was down and couldn’t count the fall. That missed opportunity became a pivotal moment in the match.
Travis Scott’s Shock Appearance Adds Mayhem
In a moment no one saw coming, rapper Travis Scott’s “FE!N” hit the speakers, and he made his way to the ring. The unexpected appearance added another layer of tension. Scott pulled the referee out during Rhodes’ pin attempt, igniting a face-off between him and the champion.
Rhodes took down Scott with a Cross Rhodes, but the distraction allowed Cena to recover. He struck Rhodes with a low blow, followed by a vicious title shot, and dragged the referee back into the ring. The three-count was made—John Cena was once again WWE Champion.
A Historic 17th Championship Win
This monumental win makes John Cena a 17-time WWE Champion, breaking the tie with Ric Flair and making him the most decorated world champion in WWE history.
Cena’s Championship Timeline:
- First title win: 2005 (WrestleMania 21)
- Most recent before this: 2017 (Elimination Chamber)
- Longest title gap: 7 years
This marks the end of a seven-year title drought, and fittingly, the most epic comeback possible in the twilight of Cena’s career.
A Bittersweet Farewell Tour
As Cena announced last year, 2025 will be his final year as an in-ring WWE performer. His farewell tour has featured a dramatic character shift, turning heel at Elimination Chamber by attacking Rhodes and blaming the fans for years of unrealistic expectations.
“They were never satisfied. I gave everything, and it was never enough. Now it’s about one thing—winning,” Cena declared during a Raw promo earlier this year.
This shift has sparked mixed reactions from the WWE Universe, but there’s no denying the impact. Cena’s final run is rewriting the record books.
What’s Next for Cena and the WWE Universe?
With the title around his waist once again, questions loom:
- Will John Cena defend the championship at SummerSlam?
- Could Cody Rhodes get his rematch?
- Is Travis Scott’s WWE involvement just beginning?
For now, John Cena rides off into the sunset as the most decorated champion in WWE history. And while the curtain may soon fall on his legendary career, the legacy he leaves behind will be etched in wrestling history forever.