As WWE prepares for the highly anticipated Night of Champions event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, speculation surrounds John Cena as he defends his Undisputed WWE Championship against longtime rival CM Punk. The spotlight is on who might step in to back Cena, with fans eager to see if any unexpected allies will help him retain his title at this pivotal event featuring the CM Punk WWE Night of Champions showdown.
John Cena’s New Strategies in the Title Defense
Recent shifts in John Cena’s character have caught the attention of wrestling fans and insiders alike. Unlike the persona who once embodied Hustle, Loyalty, and Respect, Cena now displays a willingness to do whatever it takes to stay champion. Using underhanded tactics, including potentially taking assistance from outsiders, he is determined to walk out of WWE with his championship intact at the close of the year. This transformation opens the door to the possibility of allies joining forces with Cena, possibly changing the course of his Night of Champions clash with CM Punk.
Potential Unexpected Helpers for Cena at Night of Champions
The Night of Champions card not only boasts top WWE talent, but it also teases surprises, including possible appearances by stars not currently under contract. Here are five contenders who could play a decisive role in Cena’s title defense against CM Punk:
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Logan Paul’s Possible Interference
John Cena and Logan Paul recently teamed up at Money in the Bank to battle Cody Rhodes and Jey Uso. Tension was visible between the two, yet Logan Paul still emerges as a likely candidate to lend a hand in Riyadh. With unfinished business against CM Punk—Paul eliminated Punk from the Men’s Royal Rumble, only for Punk to pin Paul in the Elimination Chamber—the opportunity for both revenge and mutual benefit at Night of Champions is clear. A timely intervention from Paul could tip the scales in Cena’s favor.
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The Return of Matt Cardona (FKA Zack Ryder)
During a recent SmackDown segment, Cena referenced Matt Cardona, previously known as Zack Ryder, mirroring the kind of call-outs CM Punk once made. Cardona acknowledged the mention on X, fueling rumors of a potential one-night return. Although he’s not currently with WWE, Cardona’s star power and the excitement from the callback could lead the company to bring him back, setting the stage for a dramatic assist to Cena at Night of Champions.
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Nic Nemeth (Formerly Dolph Ziggler) as Wild Card
Nic Nemeth, who spent nearly two decades in WWE before his 2023 departure, was also referenced by Cena recently. Nemeth’s extensive history with both Cena and Punk makes his involvement a strong possibility, especially with the recent collaboration between TNA and WWE. Even though Nemeth is not currently signed with WWE, the working arrangement might allow for his appearance in Riyadh, potentially shifting the momentum of the main event.
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Rap Icon Travis Scott’s Possible WWE Involvement
Though Travis Scott is not an official WWE Superstar, his history with John Cena runs deep. Scott played an influential role in Cena’s record-setting seventeenth title win at WrestleMania 41. Rumors have circulated for some time about Scott’s in-ring debut. With WWE events in Saudi Arabia often featuring global celebrities, Scott’s reappearance to aid Cena would not only add celebrity intrigue but could once again play a pivotal part in Cena’s championship journey at Night of Champions.
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The Rock’s Potential Shocking Appearance
The Rock, known as The Final Boss and The Great One, has been absent from WWE since Elimination Chamber 2025 but remains a prominent figure in wrestling discussions. CM Punk has been openly critical of The Rock, particularly following events that contributed to a major heel turn for Cena. Cena, defending his recent actions, stated, “I just grabbed an opportunity.” Bringing The Rock back for Night of Champions could silence critics, offer dramatic resolution to ongoing storylines, and heavily influence the outcome of the title match in Cena’s favor.
Ripple Effects and Anticipation for WWE Night of Champions
With the WWE Universe abuzz about who might side with John Cena at Night of Champions, the addition of surprise allies, from sports stars to megastars like Travis Scott, could lead to one of the most unpredictable main events in recent WWE history. For fans invested in the saga between John Cena and CM Punk, the involvement of names such as Logan Paul, Matt Cardona, Nic Nemeth, and even The Rock only heightens expectations surrounding CM Punk WWE Night of Champions. The outcome of this clash may have far-reaching implications for future storylines, wrestler alliances, and the championship picture as the Stamford-based promotion closes out its year.
