John Cena's Greatest WWE Matches: A Ringside Look

Hey wrestling fans! Let's dive into the incredible career of one of WWE's biggest stars, John Cena. From his debut to his championship victories, Cena has given us some unforgettable matches. In this article, we'll explore some of his best bouts, moments that had us on the edge of our seats, and why they remain so iconic. Whether you're a long-time follower or new to the Cenation, get ready for a walk down memory lane filled with slams, suplexes, and unforgettable showdowns.

John Cena vs. Edge – Unforgiven 2006 (TLC Match)

Alright, guys, let’s kick things off with a classic: John Cena versus Edge in a Tables, Ladders, and Chairs (TLC) match at Unforgiven 2006. This wasn't just any match; it was the culmination of a heated rivalry that had been brewing for months. The animosity between Cena and Edge was palpable, making every move, every near-fall, and every high-risk stunt feel incredibly personal. This TLC match, held in Cena's hometown of Boston, was the perfect stage for them to settle their differences.

From the get-go, the intensity was off the charts. Both superstars wasted no time in utilizing the weapons at their disposal. Tables were introduced early, setting the tone for the chaotic brawl that would ensue. Ladders became essential tools, not just for reaching the WWE Championship hanging above but also as instruments of destruction. Chairs were used with ruthless abandon, each strike echoing the deep-seated hatred between Cena and Edge. The match was a brutal ballet of athleticism and aggression, a true testament to their commitment to the storyline.

One of the most memorable spots in this match was when Edge attempted to spear Cena off the top of a ladder through a table. The risk was enormous, and the execution had to be perfect. The crowd gasped as both men teetered precariously before Edge launched himself, only for Cena to sidestep at the last moment, sending Edge crashing through the table. Moments like these showcased the high-stakes nature of the match and the willingness of both competitors to put their bodies on the line for the sake of entertainment.

The climax of the match was nothing short of spectacular. With both men exhausted and battered, they found themselves atop a ladder, trading blows as they struggled for the title. In a stunning display of strength and determination, Cena managed to hook Edge and deliver an AA (Attitude Adjustment) off the ladder and through two tables below. The arena erupted as Cena unhooked the title, securing the victory in his hometown. This moment was not only a high point in their rivalry but also solidified Cena's status as a top-tier WWE superstar.

This TLC match is remembered not just for the high spots and brutal action, but also for the storytelling. Cena and Edge masterfully played their roles, with Cena as the resilient hero and Edge as the conniving villain. Their chemistry in the ring was undeniable, making this match a standout in both their careers. It remains a benchmark for TLC matches and is a must-watch for any WWE fan.

John Cena vs. Shawn Michaels – WrestleMania 23

Next up, we have John Cena against Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania 23. This match was a clash of generations, pitting the up-and-coming Cena against the established legend Shawn Michaels. The atmosphere in Detroit's Ford Field was electric, with over 80,000 fans eagerly anticipating this epic encounter. The match was built on respect, but also on the desire of both men to prove themselves on the grandest stage of them all.

From the opening bell, the match was a masterclass in storytelling and in-ring psychology. Michaels, known for his incredible athleticism and showmanship, took the fight to Cena, using his speed and agility to keep the champion off balance. Cena, on the other hand, relied on his power and resilience to weather the storm. The contrast in styles made for a compelling dynamic, as each man sought to exploit the other's weaknesses.

Michaels targeted Cena's legs early in the match, hoping to limit his mobility and set him up for the Sweet Chin Music. He executed a series of intricate holds and strikes, each designed to wear down Cena's defenses. Cena, however, refused to stay down, displaying the same grit and determination that had become his trademark. He absorbed the punishment and fired back with his signature moves, including the Five Knuckle Shuffle and the AA.

One of the most memorable moments in the match was when Michaels locked Cena in a Figure Four Leglock, a hold that had been instrumental in many of Michaels' previous victories. Cena grimaced in pain as Michaels tightened the hold, putting immense pressure on his already weakened legs. The crowd was on the edge of their seats, wondering if Cena would be able to escape. With a herculean effort, Cena managed to reverse the hold, turning the tables on Michaels.

The closing moments of the match were nothing short of dramatic. Both men were exhausted, but neither was willing to give up. They traded blows in the center of the ring, each strike carrying the weight of their legacies. In the end, it was Cena who emerged victorious, catching Michaels off guard and locking in the STF (Stepover Toehold Facelock). Michaels, unable to withstand the pressure, was forced to tap out, giving Cena the hard-fought victory.

This match is remembered not just for the action in the ring, but also for the respect and sportsmanship displayed by both men. After the match, Cena helped Michaels to his feet, acknowledging his opponent's incredible performance. It was a moment that transcended the storyline and highlighted the true spirit of professional wrestling. This WrestleMania encounter remains a highlight in both Cena's and Michaels' careers, a testament to their skill and dedication.

John Cena vs. CM Punk – Money in the Bank 2011

Alright, let's talk about John Cena versus CM Punk at Money in the Bank 2011. This match is legendary, guys! Held in Punk's hometown of Chicago, the atmosphere was absolutely electric. The storyline leading up to the match was incredible: Punk's infamous "pipe bomb" promo had blurred the lines between reality and fiction, making him the hottest commodity in WWE. With his contract set to expire at midnight on the night of the match, the stakes couldn't have been higher.

The match itself was a masterpiece of storytelling and in-ring action. Punk came out to a deafening ovation, while Cena was met with a chorus of boos, highlighting the polarizing nature of both characters. From the opening bell, the intensity was palpable, with both men trading blows and showcasing their unique styles. Punk's technical prowess and innovative offense were on full display, while Cena relied on his power and resilience to stay in the fight.

One of the defining characteristics of this match was the crowd's unwavering support for Punk. Every move he made was met with thunderous applause, while Cena's attempts to mount a comeback were met with derision. The atmosphere was unlike anything seen in WWE for years, creating a sense of unpredictability and excitement that permeated every moment.

As the match progressed, the action spilled outside the ring, with both men brawling through the crowd and utilizing the ringside environment to their advantage. Punk delivered a devastating piledriver on the announce table, while Cena responded with a thunderous AA onto the floor. The near-falls were numerous, each one eliciting gasps and groans from the audience.

The climax of the match was nothing short of unforgettable. With the referee knocked unconscious, Vince McMahon made his way to ringside, accompanied by John Laurinaitis. McMahon ordered Laurinaitis to cash in the Money in the Bank briefcase, hoping to prevent Punk from leaving with the WWE Championship. However, Cena intervened, knocking Laurinaitis off the apron and preventing the cash-in. In the ensuing chaos, Punk capitalized, hitting Cena with the Go to Sleep (GTS) and pinning him to win the title.

As Punk celebrated his victory, he grabbed the WWE Championship and blew a kiss to McMahon before disappearing into the crowd, leaving the arena with the title. The image of Punk escaping through the crowd with the championship remains one of the most iconic moments in WWE history. This match is remembered not just for the action in the ring, but also for the cultural impact it had on the wrestling world. It elevated Punk to superstardom and ushered in a new era of storytelling in WWE. It's a match that every wrestling fan should see.

John Cena vs. AJ Styles – SummerSlam 2016

Let's move on to John Cena vs. AJ Styles at SummerSlam 2016. This match was a dream come true for many wrestling fans. AJ Styles, a veteran of the independent circuit and international promotions, had finally arrived in WWE and quickly established himself as one of the company's top stars. A match against John Cena, the face of WWE for over a decade, was the perfect opportunity for Styles to cement his legacy.

The build-up to the match was intense, with both men trading verbal jabs and engaging in physical confrontations. Styles, with his cocky and arrogant demeanor, positioned himself as the antithesis of Cena's squeaky-clean image. The contrast in personalities made for a compelling dynamic, as fans eagerly anticipated their showdown at SummerSlam.

From the opening bell, the match was a clinic in wrestling psychology and in-ring technique. Styles, with his innovative offense and lightning-fast reflexes, took the fight to Cena, keeping him off balance and frustrating his attempts to mount a comeback. Cena, on the other hand, relied on his power and experience to weather the storm.

The match was filled with near-falls and breathtaking maneuvers, each one eliciting gasps and cheers from the crowd. Styles hit Cena with his signature moves, including the Styles Clash and the Phenomenal Forearm, while Cena responded with his own arsenal of attacks, including the AA and the STF.

One of the defining characteristics of this match was the clean finish. In a rare occurrence, Cena was defeated decisively by Styles, who hit him with a Styles Clash off the ropes to secure the victory. The clean finish was a statement by WWE, signaling that Styles was here to stay and was a force to be reckoned with.

This match is remembered not just for the action in the ring, but also for the impact it had on both men's careers. For Styles, it was a validation of his talent and a confirmation of his status as one of the best wrestlers in the world. For Cena, it was a humbling experience that forced him to re-evaluate his place in the company. This SummerSlam encounter remains a highlight in both Cena's and Styles' careers, a testament to their skill and dedication.

John Cena vs. Daniel Bryan – SummerSlam 2013

Last but not least, we've got John Cena versus Daniel Bryan at SummerSlam 2013. This match was all about proving doubters wrong. Daniel Bryan, the underdog with the unlikely look, had captured the hearts of fans worldwide with his incredible in-ring skills and infectious personality. However, some within WWE management didn't see him as a top-tier star, questioning his marketability and charisma.

Cena, recognizing Bryan's talent and popularity, handpicked him as his opponent for SummerSlam, putting his WWE Championship on the line. The match was seen as a referendum on Bryan's status in the company, a chance for him to prove that he belonged in the main event scene.

The match itself was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both men leaving everything in the ring. Bryan showcased his incredible technical skills, hitting Cena with a barrage of kicks, submissions, and high-flying maneuvers. Cena, despite being hampered by an elbow injury, fought back with his trademark power moves.

The crowd was firmly behind Bryan, chanting "Yes!" with every move he made. The atmosphere was electric, as fans sensed that they were witnessing something special.

The climax of the match was nothing short of epic. With Cena weakened and exhausted, Bryan hit him with a running knee to the face, securing the victory and capturing the WWE Championship. The arena erupted as Bryan celebrated his triumph, finally silencing his doubters and proving that he was indeed a main event player.

However, the celebration was short-lived. After the match, special guest referee Triple H turned on Bryan, hitting him with a Pedigree and allowing Randy Orton to cash in his Money in the Bank briefcase and steal the title. The betrayal was shocking and heartbreaking, leaving fans in disbelief. Despite the controversial ending, this match is remembered as a defining moment in Bryan's career, a testament to his talent and resilience.

So, there you have it, folks! A look at some of John Cena's most memorable WWE matches. Each of these bouts tells a unique story and showcases Cena's incredible versatility and dedication to the sport. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the WWE Universe, these matches are sure to entertain and inspire. Keep wrestling!