On September 5, 2025, WWE SmackDown aired live from the Allstate Arena in Chicago, Illinois, marking a significant event in the wrestling world. This episode featured John Cena’s final appearance on WWE SmackDown, a moment fans had awaited with anticipation. The show, broadcast at 8/7c on the USA Network and Netflix, also showcased a high-stakes challenge from the new WWE United States Champion, Sami Zayn, who issued a surprise open challenge to Cena during the evening’s events.
Opening Moments Ignite the Crowd
The night began with the familiar WWE SmackDown opening, “WWE Then. Now. Forever. Together.” Fans at the venue and viewers at home were immediately engaged as the camera captured shots of WWE Superstars arriving, including Chicago native CM Punk, whose presence electrified the crowd. The atmosphere was electric as John Cena made his entrance, receiving a thunderous reaction from the audience chanting his name. Cena, a 17-time former world champion, appeared to soak in the energy as he prepared to conclude his storied SmackDown career where it all began many years ago.
John Cena Reflects on His Journey and Career Highlights
Once in the ring, Cena addressed the crowd with a heartfelt speech. He admitted that the night felt special and unlike any other, noting that despite announcing his retirement tour, he had kept this night unplanned to simply enjoy the moment. Cena revealed how he had faced difficult years but came back stronger, searching for his “soul” and aiming to leave everything he had in the ring. The passionate crowd responded with chants of “Thank you Cena,” much to his appreciation.
Cena reminisced about his WWE debut in Chicago and detailed memorable moments such as walking down the ramp in his early wrestling attire and slapping Kurt Angle at the start of his career. He also recalled significant matches against top stars like Triple H and a world title bout that ended with the championship unexpectedly placed in CM Punk’s refrigerator, adding a touch of humor to his reflections. Cena described the Chicago crowd as the greatest in WWE, acknowledging the fans’ role in keeping him grounded through moments of failure and humility.
Sami Zayn’s Surprise Challenge Changes the Night’s Course
Just as Cena appeared ready to close his segment, Sami Zayn, the newly crowned WWE United States Champion, interrupted. The Chicago crowd backed Zayn enthusiastically as he made his way to the ring accompanied by his theme music. Zayn spoke to Cena and the audience, expressing gratitude and acknowledging his own WWE journey that began against Cena. He recognized Cena’s role in launching his career and mentioned the tradition of the United States Open Challenge, seeking Cena’s permission to continue it.
John Cena warmly gave his blessing, but Zayn was not finished. He proposed an impromptu match at the Allstate Arena, wanting to face Cena on what might be Cena’s final SmackDown in Chicago. Zayn said,
“To quote ‘The Greatest of All Time’, if you want some … come get some!”
—Sami Zayn, WWE United States Champion
Cena responded with enthusiasm, saying, “What the hell,” and the match was immediately set to take place after a brief commercial break, creating a dramatic and unexpected shift in the event agenda.
Opening Match: Sami Zayn Defends U.S. Championship Against John Cena
Following the break, the crowd erupted as Sami Zayn and John Cena locked up for the United States Championship title. Both wrestlers demonstrated respect and competitive intensity as they circled each other inside the ring. The match promised to be a memorable clash, featuring a veteran superstar in his farewell run against a current champion eager to cement his reign and legacy.
Additional Matches and Championship Battles Highlight the Show
Besides the headline bout, WWE SmackDown offered several other exciting contests. Damian Priest squared off against Aleister Black in a display of technical skill, while the WWE Women’s U.S. Championship was on the line with Giulia defending her title against Michin. These matches contributed to the high energy of the night, further engaging fans and building storylines leading up to the upcoming WrestlePalooza on ESPN.
The Significance of John Cena’s Farewell and What Lies Ahead
John Cena’s departure from WWE SmackDown marks the end of an era for both the wrestler and the series that has featured some of his most iconic moments. His farewell in Chicago, the city where his SmackDown journey began, provided a fitting backdrop for reflection and celebration of his career. By conceding the ring to Sami Zayn for a live challenge, Cena passed the torch in a very public and symbolic way, highlighting the continuity and evolution within WWE.
For Sami Zayn, this challenge and subsequent match offer the chance to prove himself against a legend, raising the stakes for his championship reign. Fans can expect continued intense competition and compelling storytelling on WWE SmackDown as it heads toward WrestlePalooza. Cena’s farewell segment and the open challenge likely set the tone for future rivalries and memorable moments within the WWE universe.
