WWE Rumor Roundup: John Cena's final WrestleMania opponent, Randy Orton update, American Made drafted to SmackDown & more

Let’s discuss the latest WWE rumors circulating among fans

As the year draws to a close, WWE is gearing up for an exciting new chapter with the upcoming debut of the Red brand on Netflix. Along with this highly anticipated launch, the company is preparing for a thrilling slate of Premium Live Events (PLEs) and shows in 2025.

However, the rife anticipation among fans has led to multiple speculations and rumors that are doing the rounds on social media. In today’s edition of rumor roundup, we look at some of the latest rumors that are being circulated among fans regarding John Cena’s final WrestleMania match, Randy Orton’s return, American Made drafted to SmackDown, and more.

John Cena’s final WrestleMania match

Earlier reports suggest that John Cena is expected to face the former United States Champion Logan Paul in a big PLE (Premium Live Event), which could turn out to be at WrestleMania 41. 

However, a recent report from WrestleVotes stated that the idea of booking a John Cena vs Logan Paul match at WrestleMania 41 has received strong opposition from several members of WWE Creative. Those opposed to the match believe that it would not be appropriate for Cena’s final WrestleMania appearance.

Update on Randy Orton

‘The Viper’ Randy Orton has been absent from WWE programming since last month due to a severe injury during a brawl with his former friend Kevin Owens on Friday Night SmackDown. 

Amid growing fan speculation about Orton‘s potential return at next month’s Monday Night Raw debut on Netflix, new reports have offered an update. According to a recent report from Chris Featherstone, Orton is currently not scheduled to be a part of the debut episode of Raw on Netflix.

“I’ve had a bunch of people inquire about the status of Randy Orton regarding January 6. I’ve been informed that he is currently not scheduled to be a part of the debut episode of #WWERaw on Netflix.” Chris tweeted.

American Made drafted to SmackDown

The American Made faction which is led by Chad Gable and consists of Ivy Nile and the Creed Brothers (Brutus Creed & Julius Creed) currently performs on the Red brand.

According to WrestleVotes, the American Made faction is expected to move to the Blue brand in the new year. WWE creative believes that placing younger talents on SmackDown ahead of its transition to a three-hour format will “do wonders.”

Two nights PLEs

According to WrestleVotes Radio, the Stamford-based promotion is considering turning some of its premium live events (PLEs) into two-night events, with the 2026 Royal Rumble being a potential candidate for this format.

In addition, Money in the Bank could follow suit and become a multi-night event by 2027. Currently, WrestleMania is the only PLE with a two-night format, while all other PLEs remain a one-night affair.

NXT tapings

PW Insider reports that there has been discussion about holding NXT tapings in Nashville and at the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City next year.

“There’s been some talk of doing NXT tapings next year in Nashville as well as The Hammerstein Ballroom in NYC but no idea whether any official dates have been locked in.”

For more updates, follow Khel Now Wrestling on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Telegram & Whatsapp.