John Cena has long been a front-runner in the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) debates thanks to his remarkable WWE career, which includes 16 world titles and a recent historic victory at WrestleMania 41. Cena’s status in wrestling history has been questioned, though, as a recent debate among 15 WWE superstars notably left him out of their list of the greatest of all time.

The WrestleMania 41 Milestone

Cena accomplished a historic milestone at WrestleMania 41 when he defeated Cody Rhodes, earning his 17th world title and breaking the record held by Ric Flair. This victory demonstrated his enduring skill in the ring and solidified his place in WWE history. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson praised Cena in a post-match interview, saying, “John Cena es indudablemente el GOAT de la WWE,” which translates to “John Cena is undoubtedly the GOAT of WWE.” 

The GOAT Debate: Cena’s Omission

Despite his accomplishments, Cena’s name was noticeably missing from a list of 15 WWE superstars who discussed their choices for the greatest of all time. Although the list’s exact names have not been made public, the exclusion has drawn criticism, particularly in light of Cena’s substantial contributions to the sport.

When The Undertaker, in a podcast interview, presented his wrestling Mount Rushmore, eliminating John Cena and The Rock but including “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, Hulk Hogan, and Ric Flair, the discussion heated up. Discussions concerning the standards used to designate GOAT status and whether generational preferences or personal prejudices are at play have been fueled by such exclusions.

Cena’s Perspective on the GOAT Title

It’s interesting to note that Cena has commented on the GOAT debate, frequently shifting the blame to others. Citing Roman Reigns’ steady main-event presence and the company’s financial success during his stay, Cena proclaimed Reigns the greatest of all time in WWE in an interview with Shannon Sharpe. Cena said, “I don’t think there is a better breathing example of the best the business has ever been than Roman Reigns.”

In addition to showcasing Cena’s character, his humility and recognition of his peers raise doubts about his own eligibility for the GOAT label.

Support from Wrestling Legends

A number of wrestling veterans have endorsed Cena, despite the fact that some of his peers may not consider him to be the greatest of all time. WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle called Cena “the greatest WWE Superstar of all time,” highlighting his dominance and consistency throughout a 15-year period.

Similarly, Seth Rollins, a current WWE superstar, praised Cena’s influence, stating, “John’s the GOAT, man. John’s the best, John is incredible,” and acknowledging the significant impact Cena had on his own career . 

The Subjectivity of Greatness

Personal preferences, generational biases, and varying standards like in-ring talent, microphone skills, and overall industry effect all play a part in the subjective GOAT argument in professional wrestling.

Cena’s exclusion from several rankings emphasizes the variety of viewpoints among the wrestling community rather than undermining his achievements. “At the end of the day, it’s subjective,” Roman Reigns said eloquently in response to the GOAT debates. How do you argue with those people who believe in their soul that the Undertaker is [the greatest of all time]” .

Conclusion: Legacy Beyond Titles

The legacy of John Cena goes beyond titles and honors. In and out of the ring, his efforts to WWE have had a lasting impact on the business. Even while there will always be arguments over who the greatest of all time is, Cena’s influence cannot be denied, and his name will live on in wrestling history.

Greatness is ultimately determined by one’s lasting impact, which John Cena surely satisfies, rather than only by titles or peer recognition.