John Cena’s farewell match has become a focal point as one of his most notable rivals, Kurt Angle, has expressed a strong desire to face him in this final chapter of his career. Angle, an 11-time world champion and WWE Hall of Famer, has long been regarded as one of wrestling’s all-time greats and believes that a final encounter with Cena would complete their story.
Although Kurt Angle and John Cena built a memorable rivalry over many years, fans were disappointed when they did not clash again during Angle’s retirement run, particularly at WrestleMania 35. Now, with Cena planning to retire at the end of this year, Angle sees a last chance to step back into the ring with him for a fitting farewell contest.
The History and Missed Opportunity of Their Rivalry
Kurt Angle, who achieved the rare feat of winning 11 world titles, first crossed paths with John Cena early in Cena’s WWE main roster career. Their rivalry developed over numerous matches, with each taking turns as hero and villain. Despite this, their careers took different paths, and Angle did not get the opportunity to face Cena in what would have been a symbolic moment at WrestleMania 35.
At that event, Angle’s retirement match was against Baron Corbin, and many fans hoped Cena would interrupt or participate in a match to honor their history. Unfortunately, Cena did not appear, leaving a notable gap in what would have been a historic farewell for both men within the Stamford-based promotion.
Kurt Angle’s Reflection on John Cena’s Legacy
In an in-depth interview with Jonathan Coachman, Kurt Angle shared his admiration for Cena’s wrestling career and overall influence on the sport. He praised Cena’s longevity and the unprecedented 17 World Heavyweight Championship reigns, highlighting how rare it is for a performer to maintain peak physical condition and avoid injury over such a long period.
Angle emphasized Cena’s unique presence both inside and outside the ring, acknowledging his work with charitable causes and fans.
“I consider John [Cena] the greatest of all time. What he’s done for wrestling as a pioneer, as a spokesperson, as a champion – 17 World Heavyweight Titles, no one’s ever done that! John has the ability to stay healthy and never get injured, so his elongated career has made him the best in the business,”
Angle remarked.
The former Olympian also reflected on their past matches and personal connection.
“To be affiliated with him – I know I was his first match, and that was really cool. And I wouldn’t have minded being John Cena’s last match. But there is no way in hell I can get in that ring right now, so that’s not going to happen. [laughs] But it will be happening soon,”
he said, signaling his hope to close this chapter together.
Significance of a Potential Cena Farewell Confrontation
A match between Kurt Angle and John Cena would not only serve as a nostalgic nod to fans but also symbolize the end of two historic careers intersecting once again. Cena’s farewell match carries great weight given his status as “Big Match John,” a nickname reflecting his knack for rising to the occasion during high-profile bouts.
Angle’s two submission victories over Cena in pay-per-view matches underscore his unique position in Cena’s career history, where roles have alternated between challenger and champion. Their final showdown could provide closure and celebrate their enduring legacies within WWE.
As Cena’s farewell tour prepares to conclude in December, anticipation continues to build around whether this long-awaited showdown with Angle will materialize, fulfilling the hope of both competitors and their fans worldwide.
"I know I was his first match…I wouldn't have minded being John Cena's last match."@RealKurtAngle on 'the greatest of all time' career of @JohnCena #OfftheRopes | Weekdays from 2-4pm ET on SiriusXM Pro Wrestling Nation 24/7 Ch. 156@SIRIUSXM @BustedOpenRadio… pic.twitter.com/m5CG9bVd0s
— The Coach (@Thecoachrules) September 22, 2025
