With their next encounter less than two weeks away, WWE fans are eagerly anticipating the latest chapter in the John Cena vs Brock Lesnar matches saga. Over the years, these two wrestling icons have clashed in six singles bouts, each fueled by intense rivalries and physical showdowns that have captivated audiences worldwide.
Their upcoming seventh singles match is set for September 20 at WWE Wrestlepalooza, promising to add another memorable encounter to their history. As anticipation builds, it’s worth examining all their previous matches, ranked from the least to the most remarkable based on the quality and impact of each contest.
The Beginning of a Legendary Rivalry: September 19, 2002, on SmackDown
The rivalry between John Cena and Brock Lesnar started on the September 19, 2002 episode of SmackDown. Lesnar, despite being a newcomer who debuted only months earlier in May, had already secured the WWE Championship. However, their initial in-ring meeting was a non-title match.
Throughout the match, Lesnar’s greater size and strength were evident as he dominated most of the action. Cena managed to rally in brief moments, but Lesnar’s power clearly overshadowed him. Near the conclusion, Lesnar reversed a crucifix attempt from Cena into a devastating F5, sealing the victory with a pinfall.
Although this was the foundation of their prolonged rivalry, this match is regarded as the least impressive of their encounters, showing the inexperience of both performers at the time.
Their First Pay-Per-View Clash: April 27, 2003, at Backlash
Their third overall matchup occurred at the Backlash pay-per-view on April 27, 2003, marking the first time Cena faced Lesnar in a PPV environment. Cena challenged Lesnar for the WWE Championship, bringing a more aggressive style early in the match.
Despite Cena’s initial offense, Lesnar regained control with a relentless display of backbreakers, spears, and clotheslines. Cena briefly shifted momentum by causing Lesnar to bleed after hitting steel steps, but continuous attacks from Lesnar wore him down. Eventually, Lesnar executed his signature F5 for the pinfall win.
This contest, while exciting, had moments of reckless pacing that prevented it from ranking higher among their matches.
The Second SmackDown Match: February 13, 2003
Their second SmackDown meeting on February 13, 2003, showcased John Cena in his “Doctor of Thuganomics” persona, wearing jeans shorts and embracing a new attitude. Although still rising in the WWE ranks, Cena was positioning himself for a title scenario in the feud with Lesnar amid Lesnar’s battles with Kurt Angle.
The match was hard-fought with Cena showing significant heart, including a surprising moment where he struck Lesnar with a chain, but ultimately, Lesnar’s superior strength proved decisive. Lesnar finished the match with an F5 and secured the pinfall.
This match featured strong performances but did not stand out compared to the higher quality of later showdowns.
A One-Sided Duel at SummerSlam: August 17, 2014
Their fifth singles bout, held at the 2014 SummerSlam, was distinctive because it had two titles on the line: the WWE Championship and the World Heavyweight Championship, combining both into a single WWE World Heavyweight Championship match.
Lesnar dominated the bout by unleashing a barrage of suplexes, famously referred to as “Suplex City,” dismantling Cena’s offense through sheer physicality. Cena had small spurts of resistance but was largely outmatched. Ultimately, Lesnar secured the win with a pinfall roll-up.
This match was thrilling for fans of Lesnar’s dominance but felt somewhat predictable, landing it in the middle of the rankings.
The Night of Champions Encounter: September 21, 2014
After losing his championship to Lesnar at SummerSlam, Cena was focused on revenge when the two clashed again at Night of Champions. Cena endured repeated attacks but managed to counter with submissions such as his fourth STF hold, visibly wearing Lesnar down.
The bout ended abruptly when Seth Rollins, the Money in the Bank briefcase holder, interfered by cashing in on Lesnar’s weakened state. Cena won the match via disqualification but was denied the title as Lesnar retained the championship.
This match earns the second spot due to Cena’s resilience and the unexpected interference that added significant drama and unpredictability.
The Pinnacle of the Rivalry: April 29, 2012, at Extreme Rules
Lesnar’s highly anticipated return to WWE on April 2, 2012, sparked immediate tension with Cena, culminating in their intense Extreme Rules match later that month. Both superstars bled during the brutal encounter, which was marked by unforgiving strikes and high stakes.
Despite Lesnar’s physical dominance and early control, Cena’s perseverance shined, notably when he wrapped his fist with a chain and delivered a decisive attack. The match concluded with Cena pinning Lesnar after a dramatic Attitude Adjustment onto steel steps, delivering an unforgettable finish.
This contest is widely regarded as the best Cena vs. Lesnar singles match due to its dramatic twists, storytelling, and emotionally charged conclusion.
Looking Ahead to the Next Clash at Wrestlepalooza
Fans eagerly await their seventh and possibly final singles battle at Wrestlepalooza on September 20, which will be broadcast live on ESPN in the United States and on Netflix globally. Each John Cena vs Brock Lesnar match has left a lasting mark on WWE history, with varying degrees of intensity, storytelling, and athleticism.
As this rivalry nears its potential end, it remains one of the most compelling narratives in professional wrestling, characterized by fierce competition and unforgettable moments that have continually engaged audiences.
