WrestleMania 41, the grand spectacle of WWE, kicked off on April 20, 2025, at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada, promising wrestling fans an unforgettable experience. This year, the event is especially significant as it marks the last appearance of John Cena at WrestleMania, and it features a shocking betrayal that has left fans buzzing.
As the first part of this two-night extravaganza began, anticipation was high. The atmosphere was electric as around 65,000 spectators filled the stadium, ready to witness history in the making. The event started at 1:00 AM MESZ, with fans across Europe tuning in for the live broadcast on the WWE Network, available for a monthly subscription of $9.99.
The night kicked off with a title shocker that set the tone for the evening. In a dramatic twist, John Cena, who was expected to have a nostalgic farewell, turned against fan-favorite Cody Rhodes. Cena, driven by the ambition of securing his 17th title, unleashed a surprising attack on Rhodes, the reigning WWE Champion. This betrayal not only shocked the audience but also transformed what was meant to be a heartfelt goodbye into a fierce rivalry.
"I’ve always been a hero, but the dream of that 17th title can change a man," Cena stated in a post-match interview, hinting at the dark turn his character has taken.
Meanwhile, Cody Rhodes, who became the WWE Champion at WrestleMania 40 by defeating Roman Reigns, found himself in a precarious position. In a recent appearance on ESPN, Rhodes made a peculiar request, asking for an American sports personality to manage him during his match against Cena. During this segment, he was accompanied by NBA analyst Stephen A. Smith, who questioned him about his choices and the pressures of being a champion.
"I want the best support out there, and I believe that with the right guidance, I can defeat Cena," Rhodes expressed, showcasing his determination to retain his title despite the unexpected betrayal.
The card for WrestleMania 41 is stacked with exciting matches. The first night featured a thrilling Triple Threat Match for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, where Roman Reigns faced off against CM Punk and Seth Rollins. Punk's return after a twelve-year hiatus added to the drama, especially given his history with both competitors. Fans were eager to see if Punk could reclaim his former glory amidst the chaos of this high-stakes match.
In another highly anticipated bout, Gunther defended his title against Jey Uso, while Tiffany Stratton faced Charlotte Flair for the WWE Women’s Championship. The night also included matches like LA Knight vs. Jacob Fatu for the United States Title, and a tag team championship clash between The War Raiders and The New Day. Each match brought its own excitement, with fans cheering and jeering as the action unfolded.
As the first night of WrestleMania 41 progressed, it was clear that the event was not just about the matches but also about the stories being told. The betrayal of Cena against Rhodes has set the stage for a gripping narrative that will likely carry through to the second night, where the stakes are even higher.
Looking ahead, the second night promises to be just as thrilling, with a main event featuring Cody Rhodes defending his WWE Title against John Cena. This match is expected to be the culmination of their intense rivalry, and fans are left wondering how the story will unfold. Will Rhodes be able to overcome the odds and retain his title, or will Cena's dark turn lead him to victory?
In addition to the main event, the second night includes a triple threat match for the Women’s World Title featuring Iyo Sky, Bianca Belair, and Rhea Ripley, as well as an Intercontinental Title match with Bron Breakker defending against Penta, Finn Balor, and Dominik Mysterio. The excitement doesn’t stop there, as fans can also look forward to a Sin City Street Fight between Drew McIntyre and Damian Priest, and a highly publicized match between AJ Styles and Logan Paul.
WrestleMania 41 is shaping up to be a historic event, not just for the matches but for the narratives and rivalries that are evolving. The unexpected twists and turns, especially Cena's betrayal, have injected new life into the storyline, captivating audiences around the world.
With both nights of WrestleMania 41 promising to deliver unforgettable moments, fans are eagerly awaiting the conclusion of this epic saga. As the action continues, one thing is certain: this year’s WrestleMania will be remembered for its shocking betrayals, thrilling matches, and the emotional farewells of some of wrestling’s biggest stars.
As the dust settles on the first night, all eyes will be on the second night’s main event, where Cody Rhodes will face John Cena in what could potentially be a career-defining match for both competitors. Will Rhodes emerge victorious, or will Cena’s ambition for a 17th title prove too powerful to overcome? Stay tuned as WrestleMania 41 continues to unfold.
