The Champ’s Final Bell: Celebrating John Cena’s Most Unforgettable Moments
Champions, the moment has finally arrived. John Cena, the backbone of an era, the hero of millions, the man who turned “Never Give Up” into a real-life commandment, is officially stepping away from the ring.
Before the Champ’s final bell rings, we’re honoring the moments that defined his legacy.
Here are the Top 5 moments of John Cena’s Legendary Career!
1. “Ruthless Aggression” Debut vs. Kurt Angle
June 27, 2002 – SmackDown
This wasn’t just a debut; it was an explosion and a night to remember for the fans like us.
When Cena stepped up to Kurt Angle’s open challenge and shouted “RUTHLESS AGGRESSION!”, he set the tone for the next two decades. There was no hesitation. No fear. Just raw determination and a slap heard around the world.
Why It’s Iconic:
It’s the moment WWE fans saw the future, a rookie, a new blood willing to stare down an Olympic Gold Medalist and swing first. A true origin point for a generation-defining Superstar.
Re-live the moment here: https://youtu.be/10ivQ3ogO1M?si=gQNE5fsYKil1P11w
2. First WWE Championship Win vs. John “Bradshaw” Layfield
April 3, 2005 – WrestleMania 21
The night John Cena officially took the throne. It was astonishing that in such a short span of time, he was able to do it!
After battling through JBL’s brutality and mind games, Cena captured his first WWE Championship, launching the “Champ Era.”
Why It’s Iconic:
This win transformed Cena from a rising star into the face of WWE, a role he held for over a decade.
Re-live the moment here: https://youtu.be/JAYFF4HoVcc?si=oeX2TZzSxyhvcGR-
3. Cena vs. Rob Van Dam – ECW One Night Stand
June 11, 2006 – ECW One Night Stand
A match unlike anything WWE crowds had ever seen. Cena walked into the Hammerstein Ballroom, where fans were screaming: “If Cena wins, we riot!” The crowd booed every move he made, threw his T-shirt back at him multiple times, and created one of wrestling’s most unforgettable moments.
Why It’s Iconic:
No other top Superstar had stepped into such a hostile environment at their peak. Cena didn’t run, he embraced it. This match proved his mental toughness and cemented him as a warrior even outside friendly territory.
4. The Legendary Royal Rumble Surprise Return
January 27, 2008 – Royal Rumble
The crowd didn’t just cheer, the arena detonated. Recovering from a torn pectoral muscle months faster than expected, Cena shocked the world by entering at #30 in Madison Square Garden. The moment everyone realized: John Cena is beyond human.
Why It’s Iconic:
This remains one of the greatest surprise returns in WWE history, proving Cena’s superhuman work ethic and legendary resilience.
Re-live the moment here: https://youtu.be/zkQVKO2GHzk?si=6YG79KhmCtNc26L8
5. The Rock vs. John Cena – “Once in a Lifetime”
April 1, 2012 – WrestleMania 28
A match built on ten years of debate. Two icons representing two different eras.The build-up alone was monumental and had global media coverage. And when the bell rang, it wasn’t just a main event, it was the biggest match of a generation.
Why It’s Iconic:
It was the clash fans had dreamed of for years, a cultural mega-event that transcended wrestling and cemented Cena’s legacy among the all-time greats.
Thank You, John Cena.
From his debut’s fire to championship glory, to an unforgettable return, and to an era-defining main event. John Cena didn’t just give us memories. He gave us a standard: Hustle, Loyalty, Respect, and lived it every time he stepped into the ring.
Champions, raise your belts high. John Cena’s final bell may be ringing, but his GOAT legacy will remain!