Major WWE Superstar missing from advertisement; John Cena featured
John Cena broke the hearts of longtime fans when he announced that 2025 would be his final year as an in-ring performer. That means next year will mark the last time he wrestles at WWE's annual "Big Five" events, such as Royal Rumble, WrestleMania 41, SummerSlam, Survivor Series, and Money in the Bank.
WrestleMania 41 is likely to be the biggest spectacle WWE produces next year. A new promotional poster has been released and is making the rounds on social media. Several top superstars are relegated to the back, while John Cena stands right at the front. While this makes sense owing to Cena's star power, United States Champion LA Knight is not part of the poster.
The Megastar is perpetually over among the WWE Universe and currently holds the mid-card title. This can evoke the ire of fans, as they clamored for his push throughout his run in the recent past. But then again, Intercontinental Champion Bron Breakker is also not on the poster.
It is also worth noting that current Women's World Champion Liv Morgan is way at the back, while her challenger Rhea Ripley is boldly placed in the front. Could this be a sign of things to come, as Mami has not given up on regaining the gold?
Check out WrestleMania 41's new poster below:
As seen above, the picture features top stars such as Cody Rhodes, Roman Reigns, John Cena, CM Punk, Rhea Ripley, Bianca Belair, Jade Cargill, Jey Uso, Nia Jax, Logan Paul, Liv Morgan, Rey Mysterio, Gunther and Seth Rollins. The Ring General's position is also interesting, as he is the reigning World Heavyweight Champion.
WWE has reportedly decided on John Cena's return date
John Cena elaborated on his announcement at Money in the Bank in July afterward, noting that he will work around 30 to 40 dates in 2025. He confirmed some key points fans need to know ahead of his final year in WWE, too.
During a live Q&A session with Sportskeeda Wrestling's Senior Editor Bill Apter on Backstage Pass, WrestleVotes gave a return timeline for John Cena. The Cenation Leader's Farewell Tour reportedly commences on January 6, 2025. As for his opponents, it appears Randy Orton, CM Punk, and Logan Paul are all potential candidates:
"I do believe the official retirement tour is going to start on January 6, that's a part of Netflix. Potential opponents? We've spoken in the past about Randy Orton, CM Punk, I can see him mixing it up with Logan Paul one point over the next 12 months, so I think there's a wide-open book for John Cena here in 2025," WrestleVotes reports.
Randy Orton has reiterated his desire to face the 16-time World Champion at WrestleMania 41 for the world title. It remains to be seen if things pan out that way.