Felix Upton on December 10, 2025
Gunther is ready to end John Cena’s legendary run — and he’s not holding back about how he really feels.
During an appearance on ESPN’s First Take, the former Champion made it crystal clear: Cena may be the most iconic name in WWE, but when it comes to pure wrestling, he’s already been passed up.
The powerhouse was asked how he personally views Cena and whether there’s mutual respect between them as performers. Gunther didn’t sugarcoat it. While he acknowledged Cena’s legendary status as a mainstream figure, he drew a firm line between “sports entertainer” and “professional wrestler.”
“I can only speak for myself. I haven’t really—like I shook hands twice with him. I didn’t really have any interactions with him otherwise. I just remember when I started wrestling like 20 years ago now. I remember that I hated that guy in shorts on that TV week by week. I always thought it doesn’t belong in a ring.”
Gunther, known for his no-nonsense style and ruthless in-ring precision, said his view of the industry has always been about tradition and authenticity.
“I’m a big purist. I’m a big traditionalist. And I said it on Monday—John Cena is definitely the greatest sports entertainer of all time.”
“I’m the greatest professional wrestler there is right now. So that’s going to be the conflict.”
With Cena set to compete in his final match at Saturday Night’s Main Event, Gunther has made it his mission to break the legend — not just physically, but symbolically. He’s not walking into this bout to celebrate Cena’s career. He’s there to crush it. In fact, Gunther relishes the idea of ruining what should be a historic, emotional farewell.
“I think everybody is coming bringing all his love and support for John Cena that night, and I’m in the incredible special situation that I can ruin it all. I can ruin that party and break a few hearts, and I think that’s what I’m going to do.”
As fans prepare to witness Cena’s final match, Gunther sees it as more than just a clash of generations. To him, it’s a passing of the torch — and he’s already decided who deserves to carry it.
“John Cena represents a certain generation of WWE superstars, and I represent the newer generation… So in that sense, it definitely is a passing of the torch for the future.”
Gunther isn’t just showing up to win a match. He’s showing up to end an era and define what wrestling means going forward.
Do you agree with Gunther? Is he the best wrestler in the world today — or does Cena still hold that crown in your eyes? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know where you stand.
Please credit Ringside News if you use the above transcript in your publication.
December 10, 2025 12:39 pm
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