John Cena is preparing to conclude his WWE career with a series of final matches, sparking speculation about who will be chosen as his last opponent. Among the contenders, Carmelo Hayes has emerged as a notable candidate, driven by interest from a current champion who believes this matchup could significantly elevate a wrestler’s career. The announcement of Cena’s final WWE opponent remains highly anticipated by fans and insiders alike.
During his farewell run, Cena has faced high-profile competitors including Brock Lesnar, Logan Paul, CM Punk, and Sami Zayn. He is set to compete against AJ Styles at WWE Crown Jewel later this month, with his ultimate farewell match scheduled for Saturday Night’s Main Event in December.
Rumors have circulated about possible final foes such as Carmelo Hayes and Dominik Mysterio. While a Cena versus Hayes match has appeared unlikely, Hayes’s partner remains hopeful it will happen before Cena retires.
Champion Kelani Jordan Recommends Carmelo Hayes for Cena’s Last Match
Kelani Jordan, WWE’s reigning TNA Knockouts World Champion, recently voiced her support for Carmelo Hayes as Cena’s final opponent. Jordan, who has held the NXT Women’s North American Championship, has been engaged to SmackDown Superstar Carmelo Hayes since July 1, 2023. She expressed her preference during an appearance on Busted Open Radio, where host Dave LaGreca inquired about her choice for Cena’s concluding match.
While suggesting Carmelo Hayes as the ideal competitor, Jordan also humorously proposed Bully Ray—a co-host on the show—as an alternate choice.
“Hmmm… I’m bias, so of course I’m going to pick Carmelo Hayes. [LaGreca: you’re not the only one going with Carmelo Hayes] OK, well that’s good, yeah, I’m going to go with Carmelo Hayes [Bully: fair enough] or maybe Uncle Bully can come back to the ring and wrestle him in his last match,” Kelani Jordan said.
Bully Ray declined the suggestion jokingly and questioned Jordan about who should come out victorious in the bout.
“Absolutely not, no way. I don’t do jobs. [laughs] … Kelani, should John Cena win or lose, based on what you’ve been taught?,” Bully Ray said.
Jordan argued that Cena should lose his final match to give his opponent a significant career boost, highlighting the impact a victory over Cena would have.
“I think he should lose his last match. [Bully: why?] I think because if he weren’t able to wrestle like a Melo, he can be able to put him over and jump-start his career even more than it already is, because being able to beat someone like John Cena, your credibility and your equity goes all the way up,” Kelani Jordan said.
Implications of a Final Match Against Carmelo Hayes
The possibility of Carmelo Hayes facing John Cena in Cena’s farewell match carries considerable significance. A win for Hayes over a legendary figure like Cena would greatly enhance his standing and visibility within WWE, potentially accelerating his ascent among emerging Superstars. As Cena prepares for his last matches, the decision on his final opponent will mark a pivotal moment in WWE’s ongoing narrative and roster development.
With the farewell event set for December at Saturday Night’s Main Event, fans are eager to see which rising star will receive this career-defining opportunity. The anticipation surrounding Cena’s closing chapter underscores the impact his legacy has on WWE’s present and future stars.
