Why the final Cena opponent matters
John Cena has been a cornerstone of WWE for over two decades. His final match should:
provide emotional payoff for fans and career storytelling
help cement or elevate the opponent’s legacy
be a match that feels significant, maybe even once-in-a-lifetime
Gunther is being discussed and heavily rumored as Cena’s farewell opponent. He has traits that make him a strong choice: dominance, credibility, recent high-stakes matches, and a strong heel character.
Still, there are several other names who might bring different strengths or opportunities to that moment.
Top 10 Wrestlers Who Might Deserve Cena’s Final Bout More Than Gunther (or at Least Equally)
Here are ten picks, with reasons why each could be a compelling final protagonist against Cena.
Wrestler Why They’d Be Compelling
#10. The Rock Though his appearances are tricky (part-time status, legacy etc.), a Cena vs. Rock match as a final bout would check the “dream match” box for many. Big names, big crossover appeal. There are logistical and storyline challenges, but the potential for impact is huge.
#9. Jacob Fatu An unexpected pick (“dark horse”) who could bring unpredictability and heat. If WWE wants to do something that shocks fans while also building a newer star, Fatu is one such option.
#8. Bron Breakker A rising star with strength, youth, and potential. If the goal is not just to end Cena’s career but to help build someone for the future, Breakker is a good candidate. Facing Cena in his final match could elevate him significantly.
#7. Drew Mcintyre Scottish warrior amazing wrestler defeated Brock lesner in WrestleMania 36 and Goldberg in Royal rumble could be a good option against John Cena for his farewell match
#6. Jey Uso He’s been mentioned in speculation, and his rise has been noticeable. A match vs. Cena could be a big moment for Jey. That said, some fans feel he may not yet have the weight or legacy for such a monumental match.
#5. Cody Rhodes Already going strong with recent main‐event success, emotional storytelling, and crowd support. Having Cena vs. Cody could further tie up threads of the current WWE era.
#4. CM Punk Another wrestler with a storied history, both inside and outside the ring. Punk vs. Cena would bring tensions, legacy, and a match full of passion. Fans often bring his name up as a potential opponent.
#3. Seth Rollins Great in-ring performer, proven draw, excellent at storytelling. A match with Cena could combine emotion + athleticism. Many have speculated Rollins as someone Cena could face in a career-defining match.
#2. Roman Reigns He’s arguably the face of WWE in the current era. Having Cena go out with a match against “The Tribal Chief” could feel like handing a torch, or at least giving Cena a foe with similar stature. Big match, big crowd investment.
#1. Edge A dream match many fans have wanted: Cena vs. Edge has happened many times Edge and Cena has an amazing history in Ruthless Agression era referenced that match as something he would’ve liked. It has nostalgia, star power, and the symbolism of two legends getting their farewell.
Comparison: Gunther vs. These Alternatives
Factor Pro-Gunther Pros of Alternatives
Fresh Match-Up Cena has never faced Gunther in a singles match, so there’s novelty. Some alternatives also offer first-time matchups (e.g. Goldberg, Breakker, Roman recently but history is mixed).
Legacy / Credibility Gunther has established himself as dominant in recent years. Wrestlers like Reigns, Rollins, Punk, Edge etc. have longer, more storied legacies—adding more emotional weight.
Building the Future Gunther would get a huge boost if he’s Cena’s last opponent. Choosing someone like Breakker or Fatu pushes newer talent; using someone veteran may feel like a nostalgia trip.
Fan demand Many fans are excited about Cena vs. Gunther. Several articles speculate it is planned. There is also fan demand for several alternatives: Goldberg, Roman, Rollins etc.
Risk / Limitations Gunther is strong, but as a heel power player, some fans may feel his character or storytelling might not deliver everything Cena deserves. Some alternatives carry risk (age, injuries, crowd engagement, part-time status) but may offer bigger stories.
Conclusion
While Gunther is a strong, believable choice – and WWE seems to be leaning that way based on reports — the match is big enough that almost anything less than a top-tier opponent will feel like a missed opportunity.
If I were booking Cena’s final match, I’d lean toward someone who offers both emotional legacy and draws—perhaps EDGE, just for the novelty and what a final “never happened” match could bring; or Roman Reigns, for legacy and stature; or Rollins or Punk for in-ring storytelling and connection with the newer fanbase.
But in the end, whatever WWE chooses, it needs to feel like more than just a match—it needs to be the end of an era.
If you want, I can try to rank these potential opponents based on what fans seem to want vs what might make the most sense (storytelling-wise). Do you want that?
