John Cena's Greatest WWE Matches: A Look Back

John Cena, the name synonymous with WWE for over a decade, has had a career filled with iconic matches. From his early days as the "Doctor of Thuganomics" to his reign as the face that ran the place, Cena's matches have consistently delivered high-octane action, unforgettable moments, and dramatic storylines. Let's dive into some of his most memorable WWE clashes, exploring what made them so special and why they continue to be talked about by wrestling fans around the globe.

Cena vs. Edge: Unforgiven 2006

Let's kick things off with a real classic. The Unforgiven 2006 match between John Cena and Edge for the WWE Championship is a brutal, no-holds-barred affair that perfectly encapsulated their intense rivalry. The match took place in Edge's specialty, a Tables, Ladders, and Chairs (TLC) match, raising the stakes incredibly high. Going into this match, the animosity between Cena and Edge was palpable, fueled by Edge's controversial actions and Cena's unwavering determination to remain on top. This wasn't just a title defense; it was personal. The atmosphere in the arena was electric, with the crowd firmly invested in every single move. The match itself was a masterpiece of storytelling and physicality. Both Cena and Edge put their bodies on the line, delivering bone-crunching spots that had fans on the edge of their seats. The use of tables, ladders, and chairs was creative and impactful, adding to the overall brutality of the contest. One memorable spot saw Cena powerbomb Edge through two tables stacked on top of each other, a display of raw power that highlighted Cena's strength and resilience. Edge, known for his cunning and resourcefulness, used every trick in the book to try and gain the upper hand. He utilized his allies and took advantage of the TLC stipulation to inflict maximum damage. However, Cena's determination proved to be too much. In the end, Cena emerged victorious, capturing the WWE Championship in a thrilling conclusion. This match wasn't just about winning the title; it was about overcoming adversity and proving that Cena could beat Edge at his own game. The Unforgiven 2006 match remains a highlight in both Cena's and Edge's careers, remembered for its intensity, brutality, and unforgettable moments. It's a match that any wrestling fan should check out to understand the height of their rivalry and the level of commitment both men brought to the ring.

Cena vs. Shawn Michaels: WrestleMania 23

Speaking of classics, the WrestleMania 23 main event between John Cena and Shawn Michaels is a must-watch. The build-up to this match was fantastic, with Michaels turning heel and playing mind games with Cena. The match itself was a testament to both men's abilities, with Michaels showcasing his technical prowess and Cena demonstrating his unmatched strength and resilience. The atmosphere at Ford Field in Detroit was electric, with over 80,000 fans in attendance, all eagerly anticipating this clash of titans. Cena, the reigning WWE Champion, entered as the face of the company, while Michaels, the "Heartbreak Kid," sought to prove he still had what it takes to main event WrestleMania. From the opening bell, the match was a back-and-forth affair, with both men trading blows and attempting to gain control. Michaels used his speed and agility to evade Cena's power moves, while Cena relied on his strength to wear down his opponent. The match was filled with near falls and close calls, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. Michaels hit Cena with his signature Sweet Chin Music on multiple occasions, but Cena refused to stay down. Cena, in turn, delivered his trademark Attitude Adjustment, but Michaels managed to kick out, shocking the crowd. The intensity of the match built as it progressed, with both men digging deep and pushing themselves to their limits. The storytelling was impeccable, with Michaels portraying the wily veteran trying to outsmart the younger, stronger champion. Cena, on the other hand, played the role of the determined hero, refusing to give up despite the odds. In the end, Cena secured the victory with the STF, forcing Michaels to submit. The match was a hard-fought battle, a true main event worthy of WrestleMania. While some critics felt the ending was anticlimactic, the overall quality of the match cannot be denied. Cena and Michaels delivered a performance that showcased their skills, athleticism, and dedication to the craft. The WrestleMania 23 main event remains a highlight in both Cena's and Michaels' careers, a testament to their ability to captivate an audience and tell a compelling story in the ring.

Cena vs. CM Punk: Money in the Bank 2011

Arguably one of Cena's greatest matches ever, his Money in the Bank 2011 clash with CM Punk is a masterclass in storytelling and in-ring psychology. The Chicago crowd was heavily in Punk's corner, creating an electric atmosphere that added to the drama. The stakes were incredibly high, with Punk threatening to leave WWE with the WWE Championship if he won. This match had everything: intense action, dramatic near falls, and a crowd that was completely invested. The storyline leading up to the match was brilliantly executed, with Punk's "pipe bomb" promo igniting a revolution in WWE. Punk became the voice of the disenfranchised, challenging the status quo and questioning WWE's corporate structure. His anti-establishment message resonated with fans, transforming him into a cult hero. Cena, on the other hand, represented the establishment, the company man who always played by the rules. The contrast between the two characters created a compelling dynamic, with fans eager to see who would emerge victorious. From the opening bell, the match was a war. Punk used his technical skills and striking ability to keep Cena off balance, while Cena relied on his power and strength to dominate his opponent. The crowd was wild, chanting Punk's name and jeering Cena at every opportunity. The match was filled with near falls and close calls, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. Punk hit Cena with his signature GTS (Go To Sleep) on multiple occasions, but Cena managed to kick out, shocking the crowd. Cena, in turn, delivered his trademark Attitude Adjustment, but Punk reversed it into a Koji Clutch, nearly forcing Cena to submit. The intensity of the match built as it progressed, with both men digging deep and pushing themselves to their limits. The referee bump added to the drama, allowing Punk to take advantage and secure the victory. Punk pinned Cena to win the WWE Championship, then famously left the arena with the title, leaving the WWE universe in shock. The Money in the Bank 2011 match is considered by many to be one of the greatest WWE matches of all time. It showcased Punk's charisma, in-ring ability, and storytelling skills, as well as Cena's versatility and willingness to put over other talent. The match marked a turning point in WWE, ushering in a new era of alternative wrestling.

Cena vs. Daniel Bryan: SummerSlam 2013

Another exceptional match that showcased Cena's ability to elevate his opponents was his SummerSlam 2013 bout against Daniel Bryan. The storyline heading into this match was fantastic, with Vince McMahon disapproving of Bryan as the face of the company due to his smaller stature. This narrative resonated with fans who saw Bryan as an underdog who had to fight for everything he achieved. The match itself was a technical masterpiece, with Bryan showcasing his unparalleled wrestling skills and Cena demonstrating his ability to adapt to different styles. The Los Angeles crowd was firmly behind Bryan, creating an electric atmosphere that fueled the intensity of the match. Bryan targeted Cena's injured arm throughout the match, using a variety of submission holds and strikes to weaken his opponent. Cena, renowned for his strength and resilience, refused to give up, fighting back with his trademark power moves. The match was filled with innovative offense and seamless transitions, highlighting the technical prowess of both men. Bryan hit Cena with his signature running knee strike on multiple occasions, but Cena managed to kick out, shocking the crowd. Cena, in turn, delivered his trademark Attitude Adjustment, but Bryan reversed it into a Yes! Lock, nearly forcing Cena to submit. The intensity of the match built as it progressed, with both men pushing themselves to their absolute limits. In the end, Bryan secured the victory with a final running knee strike, winning the WWE Championship in a moment that sent the crowd into a frenzy. The SummerSlam 2013 match is considered by many to be one of the greatest matches of Daniel Bryan's career, and it cemented Cena's legacy as a generous performer who was willing to put over other talent. The match told a compelling story of an underdog overcoming adversity, and it showcased the passion, skill, and dedication of both Cena and Bryan.

Cena vs. AJ Styles: SummerSlam 2016

Let's not forget SummerSlam 2016 where Cena faced off against AJ Styles. Their chemistry was undeniable, resulting in a fast-paced, action-packed encounter that had fans on their feet. This match was significant because it was part of Styles' arrival as a major force in WWE. Styles, who had built a reputation as one of the best wrestlers in the world outside of WWE, was looking to prove himself on the biggest stage. Cena, ever the competitor, was eager to test himself against this new challenge. The build-up to the match was intense, with Styles playing the role of the cocky heel who believed he was superior to Cena. Cena, in turn, portrayed the respected veteran who was determined to defend his legacy. From the opening bell, the match was a display of athleticism, skill, and strategy. Styles used his speed, agility, and innovative offense to keep Cena off balance, while Cena relied on his power, strength, and experience to dominate his opponent. The match was filled with near falls and close calls, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. Styles hit Cena with his signature Styles Clash on multiple occasions, but Cena managed to kick out, shocking the crowd. Cena, in turn, delivered his trademark Attitude Adjustment, but Styles reversed it into a Calf Crusher, nearly forcing Cena to submit. The intensity of the match built as it progressed, with both men digging deep and pushing themselves to their limits. In the end, Styles secured the victory with a Phenomenal Forearm, defeating Cena in a clean and decisive manner. The SummerSlam 2016 match is considered by many to be one of the best matches of AJ Styles' WWE career, and it helped to establish him as a top-tier performer in the company. The match also showcased Cena's generosity and willingness to put over other talent, as he allowed Styles to defeat him in a convincing fashion. These matches are just a small sample of the many great matches that John Cena has had throughout his illustrious career. His dedication, passion, and commitment to the wrestling business have made him a true icon and a role model for aspiring wrestlers around the world. Whether you love him or hate him, there's no denying that John Cena is one of the most influential and successful wrestlers of all time.