Top 5 WWE Matches That Built John Cena's Legendary Legacy

WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event returns on December 14th, featuring John Cena’s highly anticipated clash against Gunther.

In his final year in WWE, Cena has engaged in classic matchups against Cody Rhodes,

CM Punk, Randy Orton, Brock Lesnar, AJ Styles, Sami Zayn, Logan Paul, R-Truth, Dominik Mysterio, and others.

As Cena nears the end of his iconic career, it’s the perfect time to revisit the matches that cemented his status as a WWE cornerstone.

Also Read: 3 Ways John Cena Will Have Upper Hand Over Gunther At WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event

These matches showcased resilience, star power and unforgettable drama — here are the top 5:

WrestleMania 21 vs. JBL (WWE Championship, 2005)

Cena’s WrestleMania main event debut saw him dethrone JBL for the WWE Championship in front of 80,000 fans. This victory ignited the rise of “Cenation,” proving the Marine could headline The Grandest Stage of ‘em all, and kickstarted his 16 world title reigns.​

WrestleMania 22 vs. Triple H (WWE Championship, 2006)

Facing The Game in his first WrestleMania title defence as champion, Cena overcame intense heat and a vicious beatdown. Retaining the gold against a legend solidified his main event staying power amid massive fan Backlash.​

WrestleMania 28 vs. The Rock (WWE Championship, 2012)

“Once in a Lifetime” lived up to the hype in a 30-minute epic clash. Cena’s rivalry with The Rock drew record crowds, blending athleticism and storytelling. Though he lost, it elevated Cena as Hollywood’s top wrestler while reclaiming respect.​

Extreme Rules 2012 vs. Brock Lesnar (Extreme Rules Match)

Cena endured 16 German Suplexes in this brutal war, pushing Lesnar to his limits before tapping to the Kimura Lock. The match revived Lesnar’s dominance and showcased Cena’s unbreakable “Never Give Up” spirit against the Beast Incarnate.​

SummerSlam 2013 vs. Daniel Bryan

In a WWE Championship “dog-eat-dog” rules bout, Cena battled the ‘Yes’ Movement’s leader in a technical masterpiece. Bryan’s near-victories highlighted Cena’s resilience, paving the way for fan-favourite shifts and Bryan’s rise.​

These matches form the bedrock of Cena’s legacy — Hustle, Loyalty & Respect personified.

Catch Cena live against Gunther on Sony Sports Network, December 14th, as history unfolds once more.