John Cena's Greatest WWE Matches: A Look Back

John Cena, a name synonymous with WWE, has delivered countless memorable matches throughout his illustrious career. For over two decades, Cena has captivated audiences with his unwavering dedication, incredible athleticism, and never-give-up attitude. This article delves into some of his most iconic WWE matches, celebrating the moments that cemented his legacy as one of the greatest of all time.

The Rise of a Legend: Early Career Defining Matches

Before becoming the face that ran the place, John Cena was a hungry up-and-comer looking to make a name for himself. These early matches showcased his raw potential and charisma, hinting at the superstar he would eventually become.

John Cena vs. Kurt Angle (SmackDown, 2002)

This match is often cited as the moment John Cena arrived. Answering Kurt Angle's open challenge, the then-relatively unknown Cena stepped up to the Olympic gold medalist and WWE Champion. While Cena ultimately lost, he put on a surprisingly competitive performance, even nearly pinning Angle with a rollup. This match demonstrated Cena's fearlessness and ability to hang with the top stars, earning him the respect of the WWE Universe and laying the foundation for his future success. The intensity and drama were palpable, showcasing a glimpse of the Cena we know and love. The energy in the arena was electric as the crowd witnessed the birth of a new star. This match served as a launching pad, propelling Cena into the spotlight and setting him on the path to becoming a global icon. It was a testament to his dedication and hard work, proving that he had what it takes to compete at the highest level. The clash with Angle not only tested his physical abilities but also his mental fortitude, as he faced the pressure of performing on a grand stage. Despite the loss, Cena's performance resonated with fans, who recognized his potential and rallied behind him. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey, solidifying his place in WWE history as a true legend.

John Cena vs. Eddie Guerrero (SmackDown, 2003)

A United States Championship match against the legendary Eddie Guerrero showcased a different side of Cena. Guerrero, known for his craftiness and in-ring psychology, tested Cena's skills and forced him to adapt. This match was a masterclass in storytelling, with Guerrero using every trick in the book to try and outsmart Cena. While Guerrero won this encounter, Cena proved he could hold his own against a seasoned veteran. The match was a thrilling display of athleticism and strategy, with both wrestlers pushing each other to their limits. The crowd was on the edge of their seats as they witnessed the clash of two different styles, each with its own unique strengths. Guerrero's experience and cunning were a formidable challenge for Cena, who had to rely on his raw power and determination to stay in the game. The back-and-forth action kept the audience guessing, as both wrestlers traded blows and near-falls. In the end, Guerrero's veteran instincts prevailed, but Cena emerged with his head held high, having proven his worth against one of the best in the business. This match was a valuable learning experience for Cena, teaching him the importance of adapting to different opponents and strategies. It also solidified his reputation as a rising star who was not afraid to take on any challenge. The encounter with Guerrero was a crucial step in Cena's development, shaping him into the complete performer he would eventually become.

Championship Glory: Defining Title Matches

John Cena's reign as a top star was marked by numerous championship victories and memorable title defenses. These matches solidified his place as a main event player and a consistent draw for WWE.

John Cena vs. Chris Jericho (Summerslam, 2005)

Cena successfully defended his WWE Championship against Chris Jericho, marking a significant milestone in his early title reign. Jericho, a seasoned veteran known for his technical prowess and innovative offense, pushed Cena to his limits. This match was a back-and-forth battle, with both men exchanging near falls and showcasing their signature moves. Cena ultimately emerged victorious, proving he could hang with the best and solidifying his position as the top dog in WWE. The match was a testament to Cena's resilience and determination, as he weathered Jericho's relentless attacks and refused to give up. The crowd was electric, chanting both Cena's and Jericho's names as they battled for supremacy. Jericho's experience and ring generalship were a formidable challenge, but Cena's raw power and never-say-die attitude proved to be the difference-makers. The match was a showcase of contrasting styles, with Jericho's technical precision clashing against Cena's brute strength. In the end, Cena's victory solidified his reign as WWE Champion, proving that he was more than just a flash in the pan. This match was a crucial step in Cena's evolution as a performer, teaching him the importance of adapting to different opponents and overcoming adversity. It also cemented his reputation as a reliable main eventer who could deliver in the biggest of moments.

John Cena vs. Edge (Unforgiven, 2006)

Their rivalry defined 2006, and this TLC match for the WWE Championship was its violent and satisfying culmination. After Edge defeated Cena for the title earlier in the year, Cena was determined to win it back in Edge's signature match. The match was filled with brutal spots, including Cena sending Edge crashing through two tables with an FU off a ladder. Cena would win the match and the championship, ending Edge's reign. This match was a spectacle of destruction, with both wrestlers pushing their bodies to the limit in pursuit of the title. The crowd was on their feet, gasping at each high-risk maneuver and wincing at the sickening thuds of bodies hitting tables and steel chairs. Edge's cunning and resourcefulness were on full display, but Cena's determination and raw power ultimately proved to be too much to overcome. The match was a testament to Cena's evolution as a performer, showcasing his willingness to take risks and endure pain in order to achieve his goals. It also solidified his reputation as a top draw, capable of delivering in the most extreme and demanding of environments. The victory over Edge was a defining moment in Cena's career, cementing his place as one of the greats and establishing him as the face of WWE. This match remains a highlight reel of carnage and athleticism, a reminder of the intensity and passion that defined the Cena-Edge rivalry.

Iconic Rivalries: Battles That Defined an Era

Some of John Cena's most memorable matches came as a result of intense rivalries, pushing him to his limits and creating unforgettable moments.

John Cena vs. Shawn Michaels (WrestleMania 23, 2007)

Cena defended his WWE Championship against Shawn Michaels in the main event of WrestleMania 23. This match was a dream match for many fans, pitting two of the biggest stars in WWE history against each other on the grandest stage of them all. Michaels, known as "Mr. WrestleMania", brought his A-game, delivering a flurry of offense and testing Cena's resilience. Cena ultimately prevailed, but the match was a testament to Michaels' incredible skill and Cena's ability to rise to the occasion. The match was a classic example of storytelling in wrestling, with both men playing their roles to perfection. The crowd was invested in every move, every near fall, and every expression of pain and determination. Michaels' experience and ring generalship were a formidable challenge for Cena, who had to dig deep and rely on his heart and determination to overcome the "Heartbreak Kid." The match was a showcase of contrasting styles, with Michaels' technical prowess clashing against Cena's raw power and charisma. In the end, Cena's victory solidified his reign as WWE Champion and cemented his place as the face of the company. This match was a pivotal moment in Cena's career, proving that he could hang with the best and deliver on the biggest of stages. It also solidified his reputation as a reliable main eventer who could always be counted on to put on a show.

John Cena vs. Randy Orton (Bragging Rights, 2009)

The "I Quit" match against Randy Orton for the WWE Championship was a brutal and intense affair. These two had clashed many times before, but this match took their rivalry to a new level. The match was filled with vicious attacks and near submissions, with both men refusing to give up. Cena ultimately forced Orton to say "I Quit" after applying an STF with handcuffs, retaining his title. This match was a testament to the intensity of their rivalry, with both wrestlers willing to go to extreme lengths to emerge victorious. The crowd was on the edge of their seats, cringing at each brutal blow and gasping at each near submission. Orton's cunning and ruthlessness were on full display, but Cena's determination and never-say-die attitude ultimately proved to be the difference-makers. The match was a showcase of violence and aggression, with both men pushing their bodies to the limit in pursuit of the title. In the end, Cena's victory solidified his reign as WWE Champion and cemented his place as one of the top stars in the company. This match was a defining moment in their rivalry, proving that they were two of the most competitive and resilient wrestlers in the business.

The Modern Era: Continuing to Deliver

Even as his role in WWE evolved, John Cena continued to deliver memorable matches against a new generation of stars.

John Cena vs. CM Punk (Money in the Bank, 2011)

This match is often hailed as one of the greatest WWE matches of all time. With CM Punk's contract expiring and the WWE Championship on the line in Punk's hometown of Chicago, the atmosphere was electric. Punk and Cena delivered a classic encounter, filled with near falls, dramatic moments, and intense storytelling. Punk would win the match and leave with the title, in one of the most memorable endings in WWE history. This match was a perfect storm of circumstances, with Punk's impending departure, the passionate Chicago crowd, and the high stakes of the WWE Championship all contributing to the electric atmosphere. The match itself was a masterpiece of storytelling, with both men playing their roles to perfection. Punk's anti-establishment persona clashed perfectly with Cena's clean-cut image, creating a compelling narrative that resonated with fans. The in-ring action was equally impressive, with both men showcasing their incredible athleticism and technical skills. The near falls were heart-stopping, the reversals were seamless, and the tension was palpable. In the end, Punk's victory was a cathartic moment for many fans, who had long clamored for him to be recognized as a top star. This match is a testament to the power of wrestling to create moments that are both thrilling and emotionally resonant, solidifying its place as one of the greatest matches of all time.

John Cena vs. AJ Styles (Summerslam, 2016)

Facing the "Phenomenal" AJ Styles, Cena proved he could still hang with the best of the new generation. Styles, known for his incredible agility and innovative offense, pushed Cena to his limits. While Styles won the match, it was a showcase of Cena's resilience and ability to adapt to different styles. This match was a clash of generations, with Cena representing the old guard and Styles representing the new wave of talent. The match was a showcase of athleticism and innovation, with both men pushing each other to their limits. Styles' high-flying offense and intricate maneuvers were a challenge for Cena, who had to rely on his strength and experience to stay in the game. The crowd was on their feet, chanting both Cena's and Styles' names as they battled for supremacy. In the end, Styles' victory was a statement that the new generation had arrived and was ready to take over. This match was a reminder that Cena, even as he transitioned into a part-time role, could still deliver in the big moments and help elevate new talent. It also solidified Styles' reputation as one of the best wrestlers in the world, capable of delivering in any environment and against any opponent.

Conclusion

John Cena's WWE career is filled with countless memorable matches. These are just a few examples of the moments that defined his legacy as one of the greatest of all time. From his early career defining matches to his championship glory and iconic rivalries, Cena consistently delivered in the ring, captivating audiences and solidifying his place in WWE history. Whether you love him or hate him, there's no denying that John Cena is a true icon of sports entertainment, and his contributions to WWE will be remembered for years to come.