3 WWE superstars who can end John Cena’s 17th World title reign

TOI Sports Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / May 5, 2025, 18:00 IST

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John Cena's record-breaking 17th World Championship reign, secured controversially at WrestleMania 41 against Cody Rhodes, may be short-lived. As Cena embarks on his farewell tour, speculation mounts regarding who will dethrone him.

3 WWE superstars who can end John Cena’s 17th World title reign

Image via WWE

John Cena's historic 17th World Championship reign could come to an end at the hands of some top superstars on the current roster.
John Cena made history in his final appearance at WrestleMania this year as an in-ring competitor. He used Travis Scott's help and some questionable moves to dethrone Cody Rhodes and win the Undisputed WWE Championship. In the process, Cena broke Ric Flair's WWE record and became a 17-time World Champion.
Despite claiming that he would walk out of WWE with the title after the end of his farewell tour, it is unlikely that WWE would book that direction. This could mean that Cena's reign as champion might come to an end amidst his last leg in WWE or in his final match. Here are the three superstars who could end John Cena's 17th World title reign:

3. Bron Breakker

Bron Breakker is one of the top prospects for WWE on the main roster. He had two dominant reigns as the WWE Intercontinental Champion and has been credited for his explosive in-ring style. Moreover, Breakker being the next top guy was cemented when he was revealed as the new Paul Heyman Guy on the RAW after WrestleMania 41. Having Breakker end John Cena's 17th World title reign could be the breakthrough he needs to become a main event player and the 'Next Big Thing' in WWE, much like the rise of Brock Lesnar.

2. CM Punk

John Cena's World Championship reign might come to an end if he crosses paths with another of his iconic foes, CM Punk. The duo shares one of the most historic rivalries in WWE history. Moreover, the fans exploded when Cena and Punk traded blows inside the Elimination Chamber match at the namesake PLE this year. WWE can possibly book one last Cena vs Punk match, which could see The Best in the World send the heel Cena packing and take the Undisputed WWE title from him.

1. Cody Rhodes

Cody Rhodes' 378-day reign as the Undisputed WWE Champion came to an end at the hands of John Cena at WrestleMania 41. WWE might have given Cena his big moment at the Show of Shows; however, it is clear that Rhodes is the company's current face. The American Nightmare could exact his revenge from Cena by possibly defeating him in his final match to regain the title. This could be seen as Rhodes saving WWE from Cena's evil motives and having an official passing of the torch moment.
Also read: Cody Rhodes set to return after WWE Backlash, Eyes possibly locked on John Cena

About the Author

TOI Sports Desk

The TOI Sports Desk excels in a myriad of roles that capture the essence of live sporting events and deliver compelling content to readers worldwide. From running live blogs for India and non-India cricket matches to global spectacles featuring Indian talents, like the Chess World Cup final featuring Praggnanandhaa and the Badminton World Championships semifinal featuring HS Prannoy, our live coverage extends to all mega sporting events. We extensively cover events like the Olympics, Asian Games, Cricket World Cups, FIFA World Cups, and more. The desk is also adept at writing comprehensive match reports and insightful post-match commentary, complemented by stats-based articles that provide an in-depth analysis of player performances and team dynamics. We track news wires for key stories, conduct exclusive player interviews in both text and video formats, and file content from print editions and reporters. We keep track of all viral stories, trending topics and produce our own copies on the subjects. We deliver accurate, engaging, and up-to-the-minute sports content, round the clock.

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