Adam Copeland’s future with AEW appeared uncertain following the surprising events on AEW Dynamite. On September 20, 2025, Copeland teamed up with Cristian Cage to take on FTR at AEW All Out, continuing a longstanding rivalry. During the match, Copeland’s wife, Beth Copeland, intervened to help him secure the victory, but FTR retaliated by handcuffing Copeland and attacking Beth, causing serious harm.
In a post-match interview on Dynamite, when asked by Renee Paquette for an update on his wife’s condition, Copeland refused to comment and walked away. He later shared an emotional moment with Cage, confessing that he
“can’t keep doing this, it’s affecting my family,”
which left fans speculating about his career decisions. Copeland’s AEW contract reportedly expires in 2026, aligning with his previously stated plan to retire at 53; he will turn 52 in October 2025.
Why Fans See a Final Clash Between John Cena and Adam Copeland as Inevitable
The drama surrounding Copeland’s status in AEW sparked widespread fan theories about his next move, especially considering his storied WWE past. Copeland, famously known as Edge in WWE, held major rivalries with WWE’s John Cena. With Cena nearing retirement and only five WWE appearances left on his farewell tour, fans are eager for one last showdown between these two legends.
This excitement intensified after Cena’s tribute to Copeland during Cena’s United States Title match on his final SmackDown appearance, where he executed Edge’s signature ‘Spear’ move on Sami Zayn. Copeland responded at AEW All Out by mimicking Cena’s trademark gestures, performing a body slam on Cash Wheeler as well as the “You Can’t See Me” taunt and the “Five Knuckle Shuffle,” clearly signaling mutual respect and hinting at future collaboration.
“On a SmackDown episode – John Cena paid tribute to Edge, using Edge’s finisher Spear…AEW All Out – Cope paid tribute to John Cena, using Cena’s signature move “you can’t see me” & “attitude adjustment”..Two absolute Legends paying tribute to each other, you love to see it💙” — Abu ☝︎, Wrestling Fan
In addition to these exchanges, Cena recently requested one last match against AJ Styles, which Triple H and WWE’s Chief Content Officer approved, adding to the buzz that another high-profile encounter is possible. Given this backdrop, fans speculate that a final John Cena Adam Copeland match could solidify Cena’s farewell tour and give wrestling enthusiasts a dream bout.
Social Media Explodes with Fan Theories on Copeland’s Next Move
The wrestling community quickly took to social media expressing deep hope for Copeland’s return to WWE to face Cena before he retires. Fans flooded platforms with suggestions that AEW and WWE collaborate to create an unforgettable moment by allowing Copeland one last WWE match.
“AEW & WWE can literally make history and do something incredible; let Edge (Cope) leave & come to WWE for 1 match to give the fans what they want. Wrestling is for the people, WWE knows this retirement tour has been a miss so ending on a high note CENA V. EDGE would be amazing.” — Ali, Wrestling Enthusiast
Others named Copeland specifically as Cena’s final opponent during the December leg of his retirement tour.
“Adam Copeland said he may not be coming back???? Heard John Cena needs a final opponent for December. #AEWDynamite.” — Young Chove 15, Wrestling Fan
The enthusiasm and anticipation suggest that such a contest would electrify fans worldwide, potentially breaking the internet and marking a milestone in wrestling history. Cena’s ongoing matches, including the upcoming Styles bout at Crown Jewel on October 11, set the stage for a climactic showdown with Copeland in one of the year’s most anticipated wrestling events.
The Impact and Potential Legacy of a Cena vs. Copeland Match
A meeting between John Cena and Adam Copeland would hold immense significance for the wrestling world. Their shared history, marked by intense rivalries in WWE, combined with Copeland’s AEW involvement and current family concerns, adds layers of emotional and professional weight. Such a match could serve as an iconic farewell for two of the sport’s biggest stars and offer fans the closure they desire after years of storied competition.
Should this dream match materialize in 2025, it would not only highlight the crossover potential between AEW and WWE but also underline the importance of fan-driven narratives in professional wrestling. For Copeland, it might provide a rewarding final chapter on the big stage; for Cena, it could be the perfect culmination to a legendary career. Fans remain watchful and hopeful as developments continue to unfold in the coming months.
On a SmackDown episode – John Cena paid tribute to Edge, using Edge's finisher Spear…
AEW All Out – Cope paid tribute to John Cena, using Cena's signature move “you can't see me” & “attitude adjustment”..
Two absolute Legends paying tribute to each other, you love to see it💙 pic.twitter.com/oapKVmftOf
— Abu ☝︎ (@otcphile) September 21, 2025
AEW & WWE can literally make history and do something incredible; let Edge (Cope) leave & come to WWE for 1 match to give the fans what they want. Wrestling is for the people, WWE knows this retirement tour has been a miss so ending on a high note CENA V. EDGE would be amazing.
— Ali (@atwice_0001) September 25, 2025
Adam Copeland said he may not be coming back???? Heard John Cena needs a final opponent for December.#AEWDynamite. pic.twitter.com/PJjHuU1P6u
— Young Chove 15 (@ImYoungChove15) September 25, 2025
