Wrestling

WWE Teases John Cena’s Next Opponent After Backlash Showdown with Randy Orton

May 10, 2025
Judium Media

There is a lot of speculation in the wrestling community over John Cena’s next SummerSlam opponent as WWE Backlash 2025 draws to a close. Cena’s career has taken several interesting turns since he recently turned villain and started a retirement tour, particularly after his controversial triumph over Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 41. 

Cena’s Heel Turn and WrestleMania Triumph

John Cena stunned fans at WrestleMania 41 by defeating Cody Rhodes to win his 17th world title, breaking Ric Flair’s acknowledged 16-title WWE record. Rapper Travis Scott stepped in on Cena’s side and pulled the referee out to stop Rhodes from winning, which tainted the victory.

Cena utilized the title belt and a low punch to win even though Rhodes blocked an early strike. After more than two decades as a face, this was Cena’s first world title since 2017 and his first as a heel. 

Backlash 2025: Cena vs. Orton

Randy Orton, a longtime foe, approached Cena after he won WrestleMania. At Backlash 2025, which took place in Orton’s hometown of St. Louis, Missouri, Orton challenged Cena for the Undisputed WWE Championship in an attempt to exact revenge. This fight was advertised as their last confrontation prior to Cena’s retirement.

Both superstars displayed their in-ring skills in the bout, which was the result of years of rivalry. Although the result cemented Cena’s title as champion, it also paved the way for his next opponent.

SummerSlam Teasers: Who’s Next for Cena?

WWE has started giving out clues about who Cena might face at SummerSlam. Fans are speculating about a rematch between Cena and Cody Rhodes after the event’s poster was just revealed. A rematch would give Rhodes the chance to regain his honor and the title, especially considering how contentious their WrestleMania match was.

Cody Rhodes has also been suggested by seasoned wrestling reporter Bill Apter as a potential opponent for Cena at SummerSlam. Given their intense animosity and the controversial methods used by Cena in their WrestleMania battle, Apter thinks the 17-time World Champion should challenge Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship.

Other Potential Challengers

Beyond Rhodes, several other superstars have been floated as potential opponents for Cena at SummerSlam:

  • Sami Zayn: After being sidelined at WrestleMania 41 due to Kevin Owens’ injury, Zayn is seen as deserving a marquee match. A bout against heel Cena could provide a compelling narrative and elevate Zayn’s status.
  • CM Punk: With Cena’s retirement looming, a match against CM Punk would be a dream encounter for many fans. Their contrasting styles and histories could culminate in a memorable showdown .
  • The Rock: Given Cena’s alliance with The Rock at WrestleMania 41, a potential fallout between the two could lead to an epic clash at SummerSlam.

Conclusion

WWE is deliberately increasing the level of anticipation for his SummerSlam opponent while John Cena’s farewell tour goes on. The next phase of Cena’s legendary career is eagerly anticipated by fans, who might see him face Cody Rhodes again, Sami Zayn, or even CM Punk or The Rock. The WWE Universe is still at the edge of their seats, anticipating what will happen at SummerSlam.