Two more NEW matches confirmed for John Cena's WWE final match tournament on SmackDown (November 14, 2025)

Blesson has been a part of Khel Now since 2023, he covers Combat Sports & Gaming.

Published at :November 8, 2025 at 1:25 PM

Modified at :November 8, 2025 at 1:44 PM

(Courtesy : WWE)

John Cena will soon be bidding the WWE universe goodbye.

The field for John Cena’s “The Last Time Is Now” Tournament is beginning to take shape, and it’s already filled with major star power and a few mysteries.

On this week’s Friday Night SmackDown, General Manager Nick Aldis announced four new names for the single-elimination tournament that will determine Cena’s final opponent when he wrestles for the last time on December 13 at Saturday Night’s Main Event in Washington, D.C.

Aldis revealed three competitors on air but kept one name close to the vest, setting the stage for a major surprise next week.

Half the tournament bracket has now been confirmed, with eight men locked in and eight more still to come. Cena’s farewell tour continues to captivate fans as WWE teases one of the biggest send-offs in company history.

Big names confirmed for the first round matches

Earlier this week on Raw, WWE official Adam Pearce confirmed that Rusev, Damian Priest, Sheamus, and Shinsuke Nakamura would compete in the opening round matches of the tournament.

On SmackDown, Aldis expanded the lineup, announcing that The Miz will face Jey Uso in a first-round showdown between two former World Champions.

Come on, @RealNickAldis! Who is it?! 👀 pic.twitter.com/frUAcvxslG
— WWE (@WWE) November 8, 2025

That’s not all. Fan-favorite LA Knight was also confirmed for the tournament, though Aldis drew a major twist from the tumbler.

The SmackDown GM chose to keep Knight’s opponent a mystery, teasing that fans will find out who he faces live on next week’s show in Albany, New York. WWE sources have hinted that the mystery competitor may not even be a current member of the roster, adding even more intrigue to Cena’s farewell storyline.

John Cena’s storied career is coming full circle from the open challenge

John Cena WWE Clash in Paris — PARIS, FRANCE – AUGUST 31: John Cena makes his entrance during WWE Clash in Paris at Paris Le Defense Arena on August 31, 2025 in Paris, France. (Photo by Joe Maher/WWE via Getty Images)

John Cena announced earlier this year that 2025 would mark the end of his in-ring career, with his final match scheduled for Saturday Night’s Main Event in December. The “Last Time Is Now” Tournament was introduced as a way for one deserving Superstar to earn the honor of facing him in his retirement bout.

Since its announcement, speculation has run wild about possible surprise participants. Cena himself hinted that WWE could open the door for outside talent or returning legends to compete. Names like Matt Cardona, Nic Nemeth, and even Bishop Dyer have been thrown around as potential entrants.

Regardless of who steps in, fans can expect a mix of nostalgia and new blood, with Cena’s storied career coming full circle from the open challenge that launched his rise to stardom in 2002, to now offering one last chance for a Superstar to make their name against him.

All Announced opening round matches

Rusev vs Damian Priest: 11/10 WWE Raw (Boston, MA)
Sheamus vs Shinsuke Nakamura: 11/10 WWE Raw (Boston, MA)
The Miz vs Jey Uso: 11/14 WWE SmackDown (Albany, NY)
LA Knight vs A Mystery Opponent: 11/14 WWE SmackDown (Albany, NY)

What is the purpose of John Cena’s “Last Time Is Now” Tournament?

The tournament will determine which Superstar earns the honor of facing John Cena in his final WWE match on December 13.

When will John Cena’s final match take place?

John Cena’s farewell match will happen on WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event on December 13, 2025, live from Washington, D.C.

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Blesson

Blesson Daniel is a sub-editor who spends his days organizing words and managing social media, crafting bursts of creativity designed to make people smile. He occasionally dives into writing as well — whether it’s crafting articles, brainstorming ideas, or finding the perfect caption. Believing that every piece of writing offers an opportunity to tell a story, Blesson brings creativity and thoughtfulness to every project he takes on. When he’s not glued to his laptop, Blesson is likely planning his next travel adventure or losing himself in music. A passionate explorer of new places, sounds, and ideas, he believes in balancing work, play, and a good playlist in the background. Whether he’s editing, writing, or daydreaming about his next trip, Blesson is always chasing that sweet spot where creativity and curiosity collide to create something memorable.