At the Clash in Paris event, Logan Paul and John Cena honored several WWE legends through tribute moves during their match, delivering an unforgettable display of respect and wrestling skill. The blending of Logan Paul WWE tribute moves into the high-profile bout added a unique layer of excitement and homage to the match’s narrative.
Unexpected Respect Display in the Cena vs. Paul Match
Despite initial skepticism from the WWE fanbase about John Cena facing Logan Paul, the match at Clash in Paris proved to be a remarkable showcase of athleticism and respect. Both competitors incorporated signature finishing moves of various past and present WWE stars as tributes, highlighting the deep influence these legends have had on the wrestling world. Among the moves performed was Chavo Guerrero’s Tornado DDT, which resonated strongly with longtime wrestling fans.
This creative nod to the sport’s history helped transform the encounter beyond a simple bout between Cena and Paul, marking it as a memorable tribute to WWE’s rich legacy of entertainers.
Ranking the Tribute Moves: From Rey Mysterio to AJ Styles
The tribute moves executed by Cena and Paul varied in style and effectiveness, reflecting both wrestlers’ capacities and the iconic wrestlers they honored. The following list ranks these tribute moves based on the impact and execution witnessed during the Clash in Paris match.
8. Rey Mysterio’s Hurricanrana by John Cena
The Hurricanrana is widely associated with Rey Mysterio, who popularized the move especially as a setup for his famed 619 finisher. John Cena performed this maneuver around the 20-minute mark, demonstrating effort but lacking the agility required to deliver the move with Mysterio’s trademark intensity. As a result, the execution seemed somewhat subdued and lacked the forceful rope impact Mysterio is known for.
7. Dolph Ziggler’s Zig-Zag Performed by Logan Paul
Logan Paul brought the Zig-Zag finisher into the ring as a nod to Dolph Ziggler, who left WWE in 2023 for TNA. At the 13-minute mark, Paul executed the move while Cena was bent forward, offering a slightly altered visual from Ziggler’s usual presentation. Although the position was different, Paul delivered the Zig-Zag with convincing skill and respect for Ziggler’s legacy.
6. Chavo Guerrero’s Tornado DDT By John Cena
Chavo Guerrero Jr. made the Tornado DDT famous during his WWE career, and even WWE Women’s Champion Torrie Wilson used a variation of the move. Cena’s version was a springboard, coming from the top rope at about 11 minutes into the match. This self-modified rendition was well-executed and effectively drove Paul’s head to the mat, demonstrating technical precision and reverence for Guerrero’s technique.
5. Antonio Cesaro’s Swiss Death Performed by Logan Paul
Known for his Swiss Death uppercut, Antonio Cesaro made a mark in WWE before moving to AEW. Paul adopted this finisher at roughly 17 minutes into the match, performing it with commendable proficiency on Cena. While it did not contribute to Paul’s victory, the move’s quality reflected a high level of respect and effort in mastering Cesaro’s impactful signature.
4. Baron Corbin’s End of Days by John Cena
Baron Corbin’s End of Days finisher has helped him overcome opponents such as R-Truth and Jack Swagger. Cena’s tribute happened near the 14-minute mark and was well timed to maintain momentum in the match. Paul remained down for a significant moment, underscoring Cena’s skillful replication of the move—even if it ultimately wasn’t decisive in the match’s outcome.
3. Roxanne Perez’s Pop Rox Executed by John Cena
The Pop Rox gained prominence after Roxanne Perez used it on CM Punk during a WWE in-house show. Cena’s version of the move, performed late in the match around 19 minutes, effectively kept Paul down for a sustained period. Though it didn’t secure the pinfall, Cena’s execution closely matched Perez’s original technique, showing respect for the younger talent.
2. Christopher Daniels’ Angel’s Wings Tribute by John Cena
Christopher Daniels, a key mentor of John Cena during their time at Ultimate Pro Wrestling, has significantly influenced Cena’s wrestling approach. Cena honored Daniels’ finishing move, Angel’s Wings, at approximately 16 minutes into the match. The near-perfect execution highlighted the deep connection between Cena and his former mentor, displaying mastery over a move central to Daniels’ wrestling identity.
1. AJ Styles’ Styles Clash Delivered by John Cena
AJ Styles’ legendary status in WWE is closely tied to his finisher, the Styles Clash. Cena paid tribute to his former rival by performing this signature move near the 23-minute mark. The Styles Clash was met with a large crowd pop, reflecting how well Cena captured the move’s essence. This tribute stood as the most impactful and well-received maneuver of the match and preceded Cena’s finishing sequence, which secured the victory.
The Lasting Impact of These Tribute Moves at Clash in Paris
The combination of Logan Paul and John Cena performing tribute moves from various WWE stars elevated the Clash in Paris match beyond a typical contest, connecting fans to the broader history and diversity of WWE wrestling. Each finisher carried its own significance, recognizing the contributions of wrestlers from different eras and styles.
This match will be remembered not only for the surprising skill shown by Paul and Cena but also for the deep respect they demonstrated toward the legacy of WWE’s finest performers. Fans are encouraged to reflect on their favorite tribute moves, considering which display of homage resonated most during this intense encounter in Paris.
