WWE to Honor John Cena’s Career During 12/12 SmackDown Ahead of Final Match

Just 24 hours before John Cena steps into the ring for the last time, WWE will celebrate his legendary career on the December 12 edition of Friday Night SmackDown.

Broadcasting live from Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, this episode serves as the final stop before Saturday Night’s Main Event, where Cena will face GUNTHER in his retirement match. WWE has officially confirmed that the show will feature a special tribute segment to honor the 17-time World Champion’s storied career. According to WWE.com:

“Take a special look at John Cena’s incredible career just 24 hours before The Greatest of All Time competes in his final match against Gunther at Saturday Night’s Main Event.”

The tribute is being promoted under the banner “The Never Seen 17”, spotlighting Cena’s unprecedented legacy as one of the most decorated and influential Superstars in WWE history. In addition to the Cena celebration, SmackDown will feature a strong lineup of in-ring action and promos, including:

• Alexa Bliss vs. Lash Legend
• Cody Rhodes speaks ahead of his showdown with NXT Champion Oba Femi at SNME
• WWE United States Championship Match: Ilja Dragunov (c) vs. Tommaso Ciampa
• Mixed Tag Match: Aleister Black & Zelina Vega vs. The Terror Twins (Damian Priest & Rhea Ripley)

With Cena’s final match looming and a packed card to lead into it, the December 12 episode of SmackDown promises to be an emotional and action-packed night. Be sure to tune in live and follow along with Ringside News for full play-by-play coverage over in our SmackDown results section.

What’s your favorite John Cena moment from his 20+ year career? Share it with us in the comments below.