MJF, a top star in All Elite Wrestling (AEW), has openly discussed his disappointment over not having the chance to face John Cena in a WWE match, following Cena’s retirement from in-ring competition. Speaking recently, MJF explained why this dream match never came to fruition, despite many wrestling fans hoping to see it happen.
John Cena Concludes 23-Year Career with WWE
John Cena, widely recognized as one of WWE’s most celebrated world champions, ended his legendary 23-year career at Saturday Night’s Main Event in Washington D.C. The event on December 13 saw Cena lose to GUNTHER, capping off a tenure marked by both memorable rivalries and showdowns with emerging talent. Despite his many high-profile matches, Cena did not square off against MJF, who was under AEW contract throughout Cena’s final 12 months in WWE.
MJF Addresses Fans’ Hopes and His Own Admiration for Cena
During an interview with Brandon Walker on Mostly Sports, MJF was asked if missing out on a match with Cena left him feeling disappointed. MJF admitted to regret over the missed moment:
“Yes, absolutely. I think that there is a different world where that match would’ve happened. Unfortunately it’s not this one.”
— MJF, AEW star
He elaborated that while he never faced Cena in the ring, he shared several positive, personal interactions with the WWE icon. MJF noted that Cena has watched his AEW work and offered praise, and MJF himself remains highly complimentary of Cena.
“I’ve said it before in other interviews, but before CM Punk my favorite wrestler growing up was John Cena. He was a fathead on my wall in my bedroom. So I’d wake up, salute the OG and then get ready for school”
— MJF, AEW star
Mutual Respect Highlighted in Public Appearances
After crossing paths at the premiere of the movie The Iron Claw, John Cena spoke about MJF in early 2024. He joked about the prospect of MJF joining WWE someday, reflecting an ongoing sense of mutual respect between the two stars. This friendly rapport has bridged the rivalry between WWE and AEW, at least on a personal level.
Following Cena’s final bout, MJF was among many from the wrestling world who paid tribute to Cena’s profound impact on the sport. Such gestures emphasized the influence Cena has had across wrestling organizations.
What This Means for Wrestling’s Future
While the possibility of a John Cena WWE match with MJF is now off the table, reflections from both men highlight the cross-promotional admiration that exists within professional wrestling. MJF’s candid remarks underscore how dream matches, even those that never occur, fuel the imagination of fans and performers alike. As WWE moves forward without Cena in the ring, MJF continues to be featured prominently in AEW storylines, and supporters of both promotions will keep wondering about what might have been.
