In a moment that will be etched in wrestling history, John Cena defeated Cody Rhodes to capture his record-breaking 17th world championship at WrestleMania 41, held on April 20, 2025, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. This victory not only surpasses Ric Flair's long-standing record but also marks a significant turn in Cena's career as he embraces his newfound heel persona.
As the match unfolded, the atmosphere was electric, with nearly 65,000 fans in attendance witnessing a blend of drama and unexpected twists. Cena's victory came through a series of controversial tactics, including a cheap-shot low blow and a strike with the championship belt, both of which raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike. The match also featured an unexpected interference from rapper Travis Scott, who distracted Rhodes at a critical moment, preventing him from securing a pin after delivering his signature Cross Rhodes finishing move.
Rhodes, who had been on a remarkable journey since his return to WWE in 2022, faced a challenging narrative in this match. Despite kicking out of multiple Attitude Adjustments, the booking choices made during the match left many questioning his portrayal as the top babyface in WWE. Critics noted that Rhodes appeared weak and foolish, especially when he refused to use the championship belt as a weapon, a move that would have leveled the playing field against Cena's underhanded tactics.
WWE Hall of Famer Eric Bischoff was among those who criticized the match's execution, stating on his "83 Weeks" podcast, "I have to believe when both those guys watch this match back, they’re going to go, ‘We missed it. We missed the mark,’ because that match just didn’t create emotion." Bischoff's critique highlights a broader issue with storytelling and chemistry in the lead-up to this monumental event, suggesting that the emotional stakes fell flat despite the historical significance.
In the lead-up to WrestleMania 41, Cena's heel turn had been a focal point, with fans eager to see how it would play out on the grandest stage of them all. However, the absence of The Rock, who had been pivotal in Cena's transformation, left a noticeable void. Many expected a showdown or at least a significant appearance from The Rock, but his absence further muddled the narrative surrounding the match.
Despite the mixed reviews, Cena's victory is a landmark moment in his storied career. He expressed his determination to retire with the championship, stating, "I will win that championship and retire with it. I am taking it home with me and leaving all of you to create a brand-new toy belt because the real one comes home with me. I will be the last real champion in WWE." This declaration not only cements his legacy but also sets the stage for future storylines involving the championship.
As for Cody Rhodes, the fallout from this loss could reshape his character moving forward. With boos increasingly prevalent during his segments, WWE must navigate the delicate balance of maintaining Rhodes' status as a fan favorite while addressing the growing discontent among viewers. The narrative choices made during WrestleMania 41 have cast a shadow on Rhodes' credibility, and a shift in character may be necessary to regain the audience's support.
Looking ahead, the wrestling landscape is rife with possibilities. With Cena now positioned as the top heel champion, the door is wide open for fresh rivalries and storylines. Fans are already speculating about potential challengers, including the possibility of LA Knight winning the Money in the Bank briefcase and targeting Cena later this summer.
In the aftermath of WrestleMania 41, the wrestling world is abuzz with discussions about the implications of Cena's historic win and the future of Cody Rhodes. The stakes have never been higher, and as we move forward, one thing is certain: the landscape of WWE has been irrevocably altered.
As Cena embarks on this new chapter of his career, fans will be eager to see how he navigates the complexities of being a heel champion. Will he maintain his edge, or will the pressures of the role lead to a shift in his character? Meanwhile, Rhodes faces the challenge of redefining his place in the wrestling universe after a disappointing loss at the biggest event of the year.
With so much at stake, the coming weeks in WWE promise to be thrilling as new narratives unfold and rivalries heat up. Stay tuned as the story continues to develop, and the wrestling world watches closely to see how these two superstars adapt to their new roles in the ever-evolving landscape of professional wrestling.
