On April 20, 2025, the wrestling world stood still as John Cena etched his name deeper into the annals of WWE history. At WrestleMania 41, the Cenation Leader defeated Cody Rhodes to capture the Undisputed WWE Championship, securing his 17th world title and surpassing Ric Flair’s long-standing record for the most world championship reigns in WWE history.
This monumental victory, bolstered by an unexpected heel turn and a shocking alliance with The Rock, marks a defining chapter in Cena’s legendary career as he embarks on his farewell tour. Let’s dive into the significance of this historic win and what it means for Cena’s legacy.
John Cena’s journey to 17 world titles is a testament to his resilience, charisma, and unparalleled work ethic. His 16th championship win at Royal Rumble 2017, where he defeated AJ Styles, tied him with Ric Flair for the most world title reigns. For years, fans speculated whether Cena would break the record, especially as his in-ring appearances became sporadic due to his flourishing Hollywood career.
But at WrestleMania 41, Cena silenced doubters with a performance that combined veteran savvy, raw power, and a surprising twist that left the WWE Universe reeling. The main event saw Cena challenge Cody Rhodes, the reigning Undisputed WWE Champion, in a match that was as much about legacy as it was about the title. Rhodes, who had been a dominant champion, was a formidable opponent, but Cena’s experience and newfound ruthless edge proved too much.
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With an assist from Travis Scott and a shocking betrayal of the fans who adored him, Cena executed his signature Attitude Adjustment to pin Rhodes and claim the championship, breaking Flair’s record in front of a stunned audience. Cena’s path to this historic win was paved with dramatic moments. Earlier in 2025, he won the Men’s Elimination Chamber match, outlasting heavyweights like CM Punk, Damian Priest, Seth Rollins, Drew McIntyre, and others to earn his title shot.
This victory showcased Cena’s enduring in-ring prowess and set up his high-stakes clash with Rhodes. The buildup to WrestleMania was fueled by Cena’s heel persona and his alliance with The Rock, dubbed “The Final Boss.” This partnership added intrigue, as fans questioned whether Cena’s turn was a betrayal of his values or a necessary evolution. The storyline resonated deeply, with Cena’s promos reflecting on his sacrifices for WWE and his desire to cement his legacy before retiring. As one X post noted, “John Cena breaks the record.
Cody Rhodes loses his 2nd main event in 3 years” (@XTheExiled), highlighting the emotional weight of the moment for both competitors. Cena’s 17th world title reign is more than just a number; it’s a crowning achievement for a man who has been the face of WWE for nearly two decades. With 13 WWE Championships and three World Heavyweight Championships already under his belt, this latest reign solidifies his status as one of the greatest ever.
His ability to reinvent himself as a heel while still commanding the spotlight proves why WWE chairman Vince McMahon once compared him to Babe Ruth.
