John Cena defeated Cody Rhodes on Sunday night at WrestleMania 41 to win his record-breaking 17th world championship. The match took place at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. Cena’s victory came with some controversial help from rapper Travis Scott.
More than 20 years of #WrestleMania memories.
Wins, losses, setbacks and accomplishments. The last time is now.Tonight.
— John Cena (@JohnCena) April 20, 2025
The win cements Cena’s legacy as one of the greatest wrestlers in history. Going into the event, Cena was tied with Ric Flair’s record of 16 world title reigns. By beating Rhodes, he surpassed Flair and set a new benchmark.
We all have an end. How we choose to spend the time before that is our choice. Thank you to all those who contributed to this @nytimes piece about this weekend’s #WrestleMania. @TimBella https://t.co/9GjVXn00CC
— John Cena (@JohnCena) April 18, 2025
WrestleMania 41 featured several other memorable matches and moments. In the Women’s World Championship match, Iyo Sky retained her title by defeating Rhea Ripley and Bianca Belair. Drew McIntyre beat Damian Priest in a brutal Sin City Street Fight.
🚨 JOHN CENA DEFEATS CODY RHODES
WWE RECORD 17-TIME CHAMPION 🤯🐐 pic.twitter.com/JHYUQZmb2w
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) April 21, 2025
The match saw the two brawling around the ringside and crashing through tables.
Cena’s historic win at WrestleMania
Dominik Mysterio captured the Intercontinental Championship in a Fatal 4-Way match.
He pinned Finn Balor to win the title in a chaotic encounter that also involved Penta and Bron Breakker. Randy Orton issued an open challenge, which TNA World Champion Joe Hendry answered. Orton made quick work of Hendry, hitting an RKO for the win.
Get caught up on everything @WWE ahead of WrestleMania 41! My lapsed fan’s guide:https://t.co/7ecjQ02eta
— Greg Wyshynski (@wyshynski) April 19, 2025
AJ Styles defeated Logan Paul in a match that showcased Styles’ veteran experience. Styles forced Paul to submit to a Calf Crusher to secure the victory. While Cena’s title win was historic, some felt his performance was lackluster.
The 45-year-old appeared noticeably slower in the ring. “John Cena, one of the greatest professional wrestlers of all time, appeared noticeably slower during his match against Cody Rhodes,” wrote Erik Beaston in his recap of the event. “The action was lackluster, and the convoluted finish involving Travis Scott did little to help.”
Despite the criticisms, Cena’s 17th world title reign is a testament to his longevity and impact on the wrestling industry.
Fans will be eager to see what the future holds for the now record-holding champion.
