Cody Rhodes is gearing up for an intense confrontation with John Cena at SummerSlam 2025, a match that has been confirmed following a contract signing on a recent WWE SmackDown episode. Demonstrating his determination, Rhodes did not hesitate to strike Cena with the Undisputed WWE Championship belt during their segment, signaling his readiness to dethrone the reigning champion.
Rhodes Demands the Genuine John Cena at SummerSlam
On the latest SmackDown, Rhodes spoke candidly about the upcoming battle with Cena, emphasizing the caliber of competition he expects to face. He expressed that to truly prove himself, he must overcome the best wrestler in the industry. Rhodes made a clear request for Cena to show up as the authentic, driven competitor who redefined professional wrestling, rather than a fighter reluctant about the match.
I don’t want to wrestle this John Cena. I don’t want to fight a guy who didn’t even want this match in the first place. I don’t want to fight a guy who is counting the days until he is out the door. No. At SummerSlam, I want to fight the real John Cena. Because if I’m going to stand here and own it, I need to know I can go through the very best and the title that John Cena has is the biggest title in our game. It means he is the very best.This isn’t about nostalgia. This isn’t about headlines. This is about a once-in-a-generation superstar, someone who redefined what it is to be a pro-wrestler. So John Cena, if this is your last SummerSlam, come like it is your first. I want you up there, talking to Stu the cameraman, I want you wearing the title the right way, I want you running to the ring. I want all the hustle. I want all the loyalty. And the respect? We can beat it out of each other.
—Cody Rhodes, WWE Superstar
Rhodes highlighted the importance of facing Cena at his best, acknowledging the prestige associated with Cena’s championship. This matchup is not driven by a desire for headlines or nostalgia but by respect for a once-in-a-generation talent who changed the wrestling landscape.
The First Solo Match Since WrestleMania 41
This upcoming encounter marks the first time Rhodes and Cena will meet in a one-on-one match since Cena defeated Rhodes to claim the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 41. Their rivalry is poised to bring high stakes and emotional intensity to SummerSlam 2025, as both competitors seek to cement their legacies.
Injuries and Changes Shake NJPW and WWE Scenes
Elsewhere in the wrestling world, a major New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) star has pulled out of the G1 Climax tournament due to injury, affecting the dynamics of the competition. Meanwhile, within WWE, producer TJ Wilson was reportedly told he had ruined the career of a Monday Night Raw star, shedding light on backstage challenges.
Reflections on Past WWE Moments and Future Possibilities
Shawn Michaels recently reflected on his short-lived in-ring WWE comeback, sharing insights about his return. At the same time, WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns appears to be laying groundwork for a potential feud with another iconic former champion, hinting at exciting matchups ahead.
Tributes and Personal Revelations in WWE
Triple H publicly paid tribute to wrestling legend Hulk Hogan following his passing, marking a poignant moment in the wrestling community. On a more personal note, Cody Rhodes opened up about how a canceled match nearly led him to leave WWE, revealing the struggles and frustrations he has faced in his career. Additionally, Rhodes expressed gratitude that his wife remained supportive during the early stages of their relationship when he portrayed a less favorable gimmick.
What This Rivalry Means for SummerSlam 2025 and Beyond
The anticipated showdown between Cody Rhodes and John Cena carries more than just championship implications; it represents a battle between established greatness and ambitious resurgence. Rhodes’ challenge for Cena to bring his full intensity underscores the high emotional stakes surrounding the event, promising a contest filled with passion and fierce competition. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Rhodes can overcome one of wrestling’s biggest icons or if Cena will continue to solidify his legendary status in his potentially final SummerSlam appearance.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is WrestleMania or SummerSlam bigger?
A. SummerSlam is a pro wrestling show held every year since 1988 by WWE, the biggest wrestling company globally. Known as “The Biggest Party of the Summer,” it is considered WWE’s second most important event after WrestleMania.
Q. Is SummerSlam 2025 2 nights?
A. SummerSlam, like WrestleMania, Royal Rumble, and Survivor Series, is one of WWE’s top four major events. For the first time, it will take place over two nights this year, making it a bigger occasion.
Q. Is SummerSlam 2 nights in 2025?
A. WWE SummerSlam 2025: Important Details. The event will take place over two nights. John Cena will face Cody Rhodes in a WrestleMania rematch.
Q. Will John Cena be in SummerSlam 2025?
A. This SummerSlam event will be the fourth one held in East Rutherford, following the events in 1989, 1997, and 2007. It will also mark John Cena’s final appearance as a wrestler at SummerSlam, as he plans to retire from professional wrestling by the end of 2025.
