John Cena’s status as the Undisputed WWE Champion appears uncertain following the developments on last week’s SmackDown. If he loses the title at SummerSlam, Cena could still headline major non-title bouts against WWE’s top talents or stars from allied promotions during his farewell tour. The upcoming Clash in Paris offers a prime opportunity to showcase Cena’s final matches in WWE, providing fans with memorable moments before his retirement.
Potential Opponents With History and Star Power
Several wrestlers have emerged as intriguing challengers for Cena at the Clash in Paris, each bringing unique storylines and fan appeal. Among these is Matt Cardona, known previously as Zack Ryder in WWE. Although a long shot, Cardona gained attention after Cena mentioned him during a recent promo on SmackDown, hinting at a possible nostalgic match that could resonate during Cena’s farewell run.
Joe Hendry, popular in both TNA and WWE, is also a candidate to face Cena. Before Cena’s retirement announcement, Hendry expressed interest in a match with him, and Cena’s past Instagram post featuring both WWE and TNA logos stoked rumors of a potential cross-promotion showdown. Hendry’s vocal enthusiasm and status as a former TNA Champion make him a notable contender.
Sheamus provides a compelling physical clash for Cena, recalling their fiercely competitive WWE Championship battles from 2009 to 2010. A match based on mutual respect could offer fans a hard-hitting encounter that tests Cena’s toughness one last time against The Great White.
Top Champions and Rising Stars as Possible Challengers
Current World Heavyweight Champion Gunther stands out as a strong opponent for Cena. Their contrasting wrestling techniques would likely deliver an intense contest, with Gunther’s commanding presence matched against Cena’s resilience. Should Gunther retain his title against CM Punk at SummerSlam, WWE might craft a storyline where Gunther challenges Cena’s legendary status.
LA Knight, gaining momentum this year, could face Cena as part of the farewell tour. The two previously allied against The Bloodline, and with Cena’s shift to a heel character, Knight’s brash personality as The Megastar sets the stage for a dynamic rivalry. This matchup promises fiery promos and heated exchanges that play off both superstars’ charisma.
Drew McIntyre, known for his fierce confrontations in WWE, may also pursue Cena, potentially leading to a major showdown in Paris. McIntyre enjoys immense support from the European crowd, particularly in France, which would make this bout a highly charged event. WWE might build a feud around McIntyre diminishing Cena’s legacy while elevating his own, spotlighting their similarly powerful wrestling styles.
Veteran Rivals and Former Championship Opponents
AJ Styles remains a prime contender, given their acclaimed rivalry between 2016 and 2017, which produced some of WWE’s most thrilling matches. Styles’ popularity in France, demonstrated in last year’s Backlash event, enhances the appeal of their potential matchup at Clash in Paris. Additionally, Styles is favored to capture the WWE Intercontinental Championship from Dominik Mysterio at SummerSlam, setting up an exciting chase for Cena who has yet to claim that title during his WWE career.
Seth Rollins, fresh from their recent encounter at Night of Champions, could be another key adversary. Rollins’ interference during that event and his role in Cena’s heel turn after the Elimination Chamber suggest a brewing feud. If Rollins’ reported injury is part of a storyline, this anticipated clash could deliver a high-energy battle fueled by personal vendettas.
What’s at Stake as Cena Approaches His Farewell Matches
As John Cena nears the conclusion of his farewell tour, every opponent and match gains heightened significance for fans and WWE alike. The Clash in Paris will likely serve as a major milestone, showcasing Cena’s legacy through competitor matchups that blend nostalgia, fresh rivalries, and high stakes. Whether defending his title or fighting non-title bouts, Cena’s presence continues to draw passionate crowds eager to witness a wrestling legend’s final chapter.
The selection of these eight possible opponents reflects WWE’s strategy to balance star power with intriguing narratives, creating compelling reasons for fans to tune into Clash in Paris. For Cena, the event could either mark a triumphant defense or a fitting sendoff against worthy challengers, ensuring his farewell remains memorable in wrestling history.
