12-time WWE champion tipped to be the next John Cena; is "taking it to his level," according to RAW star
John Cena surprised the WWE Universe by announcing his retirement at Money in the Bank 2024. However, fans can still catch him in action in 2025 before he hangs up his boots, and a 21-time champion believes his successor is ready.
Former WWE Champion The Miz believes that Cody Rhodes has learned a few things from The Greatest of All Time. Many feel The American Nightmare is doing a good job at the top of the company in Roman Reigns’ absence.
In a recent interview with TV Insider, The A-Lister was asked about his thoughts on John Cena’s retirement announcement. He noted that Cena has been a role model for the younger generation. Miz also said that he would like to be one of Cena’s final opponents.
"It’s crazy, right? Never did I think he would say he would retire, that WrestleMania 41 will be his last WrestleMania. Then he’ll have some matches after. That’s just like John Cena, right? He is like, 'I’m not just going to do WrestleMania. I’m going to do all these events.' I think it’s so great for the younger generation who will hopefully get to work with him. I selfishly would like to work with him one more time," the WWE legend said.
The Miz added that everyone wanted to be John Cena’s last opponent. He also talked about how younger stars had learned a lot from The Cenation Leader, and Cody Rhodes was following in the legend’s footsteps. Cody, who has won just about every title in WWE, including the Undisputed WWE Championship, the Intercontinental Title twice and tag titles five times, is seen by many as the furture face of WWE.
"Everyone wants to be John Cena’s last match. Everyone wants to be part of it, especially when you think about what he has done for the business and WWE. Not only in the ring but outside as well. How many Make-A-Wish wishes has he granted? The example he has set for superstars like myself. You need to be the hardest working in the room to be at the top. Now you look at who is at the top. It’s Cody Rhodes, and he is doing his own version of it. He is taking what he was taught by John Cena and taking it to his level," The Miz continued.
Cena’s final run will be a must-watch for diehard wrestling fans. He has given his all to the wrestling community over the years, and it’s time for the fans to appreciate his commitment to the business.
John Cena could have his final match against Cody Rhodes in WWE
Many superstars would be hoping to face The Greatest of All Time in his retirement match. Many WWE fans would want to see him face someone like Randy Orton or Roman Reigns. Others would want a young face such as Bron Breakker or Carmelo Hayes to take on the 16-time world champion.
However, Cody Rhodes could get the final match against his friend. WWE has pushed Rhodes as the poster boy of the company of late and put him in a similar position to where John Cena was a couple of decades ago.
That could result in the WWE Universe witness Cena pass on the torch to Rhodes for good before bowing out. It would be the perfect way to make Cody Rhodes the new 'Superhero Babyface' of WWE.