The John Cena Classic is starting to take shape, and the tournament now has its second confirmed participant. John Cena made a special appearance on WWE NXT this week to personally announce that Zilla Fatu will be joining the competition in December.
During WWE NXT on November 4, 2026, Cena made his way to the ring and received a warm reception from the crowd. After rapping along to his entrance theme, the 17-time World Champion grabbed a microphone and explained why he was back on the developmental brand.
Cena spoke about what NXT means to him, describing it as a place built around potential and opportunity. He then turned his attention to the upcoming John Cena Classic and wasted little time revealing the next name joining the tournament.
Zilla Fatu was announced as the second entrant in the John Cena Classic, and the son of the late Umaga made his way to the ring to join Cena for the announcement.
Cena then took a moment to explain his personal connection to Fatu’s family. He joked that he sometimes feels like an honorary Samoan because of his history with Rikishi, The Rock, Roman Reigns, and Solo Sikoa.
However, the conversation became much more emotional when Cena spoke about Fatu’s father, Umaga. Cena explained how much he loved and respected Umaga and said it was an honor to give his son an opportunity in the tournament because of everything the family had done for him throughout his career.
The comments brought Fatu to tears as he listened to Cena speak about his father. Fatu thanked Cena for the opportunity, saying he felt blessed to be included in the John Cena Classic. The two then shared a hug in the middle of the ring.
With Fatu now officially confirmed as the tournament’s second participant, the field for the inaugural John Cena Classic continues to grow ahead of its December debut.
What do you think about Zilla Fatu being named the second entrant in the John Cena Classic? Who else should John Cena invite to compete in the tournament? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
