WWE star finally speaks out after being named in John Cena’s “Last Time Is Now” Tournament

As the WWE universe prepares for John Cena’s emotional farewell, one of his fiercest rivals, Sheamus, has broken his silence after being named among the top contenders for the “Last Time Is Now” Tournament — the event that will determine Cena’s final opponent before retirement.

Sheamus opens up about the honor of facing John Cena one last time

During his recent appearance on Raw Recap, Sheamus reflected on the deep history he shares with the 16-timeWorld Champion, recalling the pivotal moment in 2009 when he shocked the world by defeating Cena at the TLC pay-per-view to capture his first WWE World Heavyweight Championship.

“I think it’s very meaningful [to be considered as Cena’s last opponent],” Sheamus said. “Obviously, we go back to 2009, we had that match at TLC when I shocked the world and became one of the fastest ever WWE World Heavyweight Champions by beating him and putting him through a table.”

For Sheamus, the possibility of facing John Cena one final time isn’t just about competition — it’s about gratitude and legacy. “That itself launched my career to a whole new level and put me on the map right away,” he explained. “I’d love to repay the favor for what was done for me — to face him, beat him, and go full circle by giving him the match he truly deserves on the way out, on his last match of his retirement year. I think that’d be incredible.”

A rivalry built on respect and intensity

The Irish powerhouse also looked back on their grueling years on the road, emphasizing how those battles with John Cena shaped his career.

“We wrestled pretty much every single night on live events, we were on the road five days a week, and it really was a baptism of fire,” Sheamus recalled.

Over the years, Sheamus has captured multiple world titles and earned a reputation as one of WWE’s hardest hitters. Yet, his clashes with Cena remain among the most defining moments of his career.

“I’ve taken two WWE titles off John,” he said proudly. “And what better way for him to go out than with the banger of all bangers? The GOAT of all GOATS goes out with a banger of all bangers.”

As speculation builds over who will ultimately face John Cena in what’s being called the “Last Time Is Now” Tournament, Sheamus’s emotional remarks have reignited excitement among fans.