John Cena’s Final WWE Match Tournament: Two matches announced for WWE RAW next week

(Courtesy : WWE)
John Cena will soon have his final match.
John Cena’s farewell tour is entering its final and most emotional chapter. The 17-time world champion is looking for one last challenger to share the ring with him when he wrestles for the final time on December 13.
On this week’s WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event, Cena announced the launch of a 16-person tournament, aptly named The Last Time is Now Tournament, with the winner earning the right to face him in his final WWE match.
The tournament kicks off next week on WWE Raw, broadcasting live from Cena’s hometown of Boston, Massachusetts. Fans can expect an emotional night filled with nostalgia, history, and a glimpse into the future of WWE as new stars step up to challenge the legend who defined an era.
The two first round matches are set for next week’s WWE Raw
Raw GM Adam Pearce confirmed two first-round matches that will headline next week’s Raw. In a cross-brand showdown, Rusev is set to face Damian Priest in a clash of power and precision. Both men have enjoyed impressive years, and a win here could vault either one into career-defining territory.
The second match announced features Shinsuke Nakamura taking on Sheamus in what promises to be a hard-hitting, physical contest. The King of Strong Style meets The Celtic Warrior, two veterans who have fought everyone and beaten almost everyone. Their encounter could easily steal the show as both look to prove they still belong in the main event picture.
Nick Aldis is expected to announce two additional first-round matches later this week on SmackDown, continuing the buildup to what could be one of the most meaningful tournaments in recent WWE history.
John Cena’s final chapter nears its end

John Cena made his retirement intentions clear at last year’s SummerSlam, stating that 2025 would mark his final year as an in-ring competitor. His “farewell tour” has seen him compete against the biggest names of the modern era, from Cody Rhodes to Randy Orton, AJ Styles, CM Punk, and Logan Paul.
At WrestleMania 41, Cena defeated Rhodes to capture the Undisputed WWE Championship, setting a historic record with his 17th world title. But in a poetic twist, Rhodes got his win back at SummerSlam, symbolizing the passing of the torch from one era to the next.
Cena’s upcoming matches at Survivor Series and his final bout on December 13 at a special edition of Saturday Night’s Main Event will close the curtain on a legendary career. Rumors continue to swirl about his last opponent, with names like Gunther, Bron Breakker, and Bronson Reed gaining traction.
As speculation grows, one thing is certain, whoever earns the honor of facing Cena will step into the ring not just for a match, but for a moment that defines legacies.
When does John Cena’s ‘The Last Time is Now Tournament’ begin?
The tournament begins next week on WWE Raw from Cena’s hometown of Boston, Massachusetts.
What are the first two matches announced for the tournament?
Rusev vs Damian Priest and Shinsuke Nakamura vs Sheamus will take place in the opening round of the tournament.
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