WWE legend John Cena has made his intentions clear as he prepares to step into the ring against Brock Lesnar at Wrestlepalooza 2025. Appearing in front of a sold-out crowd in his home state of Massachusetts, the 16-time world champion delivered a fiery promo, accepting Lesnar’s challenge with a bold statement that electrified the arena.
John Cena’s farewell tour reaches a critical chapter
The September 15 episode of WWE RAW was more than just another stop on Cena’s retirement tour. Held at the MassMutual Center in Springfield, Massachusetts, the night carried special significance for the West Newbury native. Surrounded by family, old college teammates, and thousands of passionate fans, Cena reflected on his journey from Springfield College football fields to the biggest stages in WWE.
The ovation inside the packed arena underscored just how much John Cena means to fans in his home state. Chants of “thank you, Cena” echoed throughout the night as he addressed what could be one of the toughest battles of his career.
Turning his focus to Brock Lesnar
While the nostalgia was strong, Cena quickly shifted his attention to the Beast Incarnate. Acknowledging the immense challenge Brock Lesnar presents, he admitted the danger but refused to back down.
He told the crowd that declining the match would have been the “safe, smart, and easy” decision, especially with only six appearances left on his farewell tour. But Cena was adamant that such a move would betray everything he stands for inside the ring.
“That there is why I say yes, because I am the last champion,” Cena declared. “I don’t give a damn.”
The crowd roared with chants of “whoop his ass” as John Cena made it clear that even fear of Brock Lesnar wouldn’t deter him.
An emotional yet defiant stand
In his promo, Cena admitted to being scared of Lesnar, but emphasized that fear would not stop him from giving fans the kind of fight they deserve. He reminded everyone that he has never been one to fight his battles backstage, but rather in the squared circle, where his legacy was forged.
As chants directed at Brock Lesnar filled the arena, Cena even joked that Netflix should interpret the explicit fan chants as “talk to Lesnar” to avoid censorship—further hyping the atmosphere before Wrestlepalooza.
Wrestlepalooza promises a historic showdown
Set for September 20 in Indianapolis, Wrestlepalooza is shaping up to be one of WWE’s most anticipated events. Not only will it be broadcast as WWE’s first-ever premium live event, but it also marks a rare and possibly final opportunity for fans to witness John Cena on such a grand stage.