Gunther secured his spot against John Cena after defeating LA Knight in the finals of the Last Time is Now Tournament on WWE SmackDown. The clash will take place at Saturday Night’s Main Event XLII, marking Cena’s final in-ring match. "You finally and definitely will give up!"
While Gunther is a strong and logical choice, many fans believe WWE had several bigger and more emotional options available for Cena’s retirement bout. A final opponent carries legacy, nostalgia, and storytelling weight — and these five names could’ve delivered something even more historic.
Gunther has quite the message for John Cena... 👀 pic.twitter.com/WmcgOVcl3j
#5. Drew McIntyre
Drew McIntyre suffered another major defeat when he lost to Cody Rhodes at Main Event XLI. Despite his star power, 2025 hasn’t been his year in terms of big wins.
McIntyre thrives in heated feuds, and giving him Cena’s last match could’ve reignited his momentum. A win over The GOAT would’ve been career-defining, or a loss could’ve still produced a memorable emotional rivalry.
#4. Sheamus
Sheamus was originally part of the Last Time is Now Tournament but had to withdraw due to injury, with The Miz taking his place.
Cena and Sheamus share a rich history — brawls, championship bouts, and memorable rivalries. If Cena still held the Intercontinental Championship after Survivor Series, Sheamus could’ve defeated him to complete his Grand Slam, a perfect story for both legends.
#3. Chad Gable
Cena’s first WWE opponent was Kurt Angle — a moment still talked about decades later. Chad Gable is the closest modern reflection of Angle: an Olympian, technician, and charismatic underdog.
With Angle potentially in Gable’s corner, this clash could’ve echoed history beautifully. A "full-circle moment" tribute match would’ve brought nostalgia and technical excellence.
#2. LA Knight
Many fans expected — even wanted — LA Knight to win the tournament and face Cena. Instead, Knight fell short again, adding to criticism surrounding his recent booking.
Had Knight faced Cena, a strong performance (or win) could’ve reignited his main event status. Cena passing the torch to one of WWE’s hottest stars would’ve created a massive moment.
#1. Roman Reigns
Despite both being generational icons, Cena vs Reigns has always been one-sided. Reigns holds 11 victories over Cena in their singles encounters.
Yet during Cena’s entire retirement build-up, Roman has not crossed paths with him — a missed blockbuster opportunity. A final showdown could’ve given Cena one last chance to conquer The Tribal Chief, creating a historic ending to his legendary career.
Whether Gunther was the right final opponent or not remains a topic of heavy debate. But one thing is certain — Cena’s last match is destined to be emotional, unforgettable, and a chapter WWE fans will talk about for years.
