During this week’s WWE RAW, Nikki Bella delivered a memorable performance when she challenged Stephanie Vaquer for the World Heavyweight Championship, paying a visible John Cena homage that created a buzz throughout the arena. The John Cena homage on WWE RAW took center stage as Bella executed a move closely associated with Cena, drawing chants from the crowd and igniting conversation among wrestling fans.
Nikki Bella Surprises Fans by Using the STF
In a high-stakes triple threat contest for the World Heavyweight Championship, Nikki Bella made headlines by applying the STF—a submission hold long connected to John Cena—on Raquel Rodriguez. This moment instantly evoked a reaction from the audience, who began chanting John Cena’s name in appreciation of the tribute. During the match, some fans could be heard exclaiming their thanks to Cena, which led to a witty retort from Bella herself as she maintained pressure with the hold.
“Nikki Bella locked in a STF and the fans chanted ‘Thank You Cena’ and Nikki Bella said ‘No thank me’ ðŸ˜ðŸ˜#WWERaw pic.twitter.com/FZLYQqj9gJ”— TOMWWE99 (@tomwwe99) December 30, 2025
The crowd’s response, coupled with Bella’s quick comeback, underlined just how significant Cena’s influence remains—even after his recent retirement from professional wrestling earlier this month. Bella’s actions made it clear she wasn’t just honoring Cena, but was also determined to assert her own legacy within WWE.
Background on Nikki Bella and John Cena’s History
Nikki Bella and John Cena’s connection goes beyond the squared circle, with years of highly publicized history. The two were previously engaged after Cena’s proposal at WrestleMania 33, a moment witnessed by millions of wrestling fans around the world. However, the pair parted ways before walking down the aisle, and both have since moved forward separately. Bella’s homage on RAW served as a reminder of their intertwined journeys as well as Cena’s ongoing influence on WWE, even in his absence.
Significance and Future Implications
The John Cena homage on WWE RAW stands out as both a poignant nod to a legendary wrestler and a demonstration of Nikki Bella’s enduring presence in the wrestling scene. By choosing to adopt Cena’s signature move, Bella not only tapped into the legacy of a WWE Hall of Famer, but also showcased her versatility and ability to command the crowd. The event highlighted the emotional ties fans maintain with superstars like Cena while raising questions about Bella’s future in the spotlight and whether other wrestlers will soon follow her example in paying tribute to iconic figures.
Nikki Bella locked in a STF and the fans chanted "Thank You Cena" and Nikki Bella said "No thank me" ðŸ˜ðŸ˜#WWERawÂ
pic.twitter.com/FZLYQqj9gJ— TOMWWE99 (@tomwwe99) December 30, 2025
