John Cena Claims 17th WWE Title, Surpassing Ric Flair’s Record

LAS VEGAS: In a stunning conclusion to WrestleMania 41, John Cena made wrestling history by securing his 17th world championship, surpassing Ric Flair’s long-standing record of 16 titles.

The main event saw Cena defeat Cody Rhodes in a compelling and contentious match, marking his first villainous turn in over two decades.

Tensions between Cena and Rhodes had been rising since the Elimination Chamber in March, when Cena stunned viewers by attacking Rhodes alongside Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, his former adversary.

This alliance and Cena’s transformation to a villain reverberated throughout the WWE Universe. The Rock, currently a TKO Group board member, had previously returned to the ring at WrestleMania 40 and maintained his influential position in significant storylines.

Prior to WrestleMania, Cena announced his retirement at the end of 2025 during an appearance on SmackDown at the T-Mobile Arena, adding emotional weight to his final WrestleMania showing.

The main event featured fierce exchanges, with chants of support and disapproval for Cena echoing in the arena.

Rhodes executed a Disaster Kick and a Cody Cutter, while Cena responded with numerous Attitude Adjustments and the STFU submission hold. Rhodes bravely refused to concede.

The match intensified when the referee was incapacitated, preventing Rhodes from securing a crucial pinfall.

Unexpectedly, rapper Travis Scott’s music played, and Scott, who had previously attacked Rhodes at the Elimination Chamber, interfered again. Though Rhodes fought him off, Cena seized the opportunity.

In the decisive moments, Cena delivered a low blow and struck Rhodes with the championship belt. Once the referee recovered, Cena pinned Rhodes for the victory.

Cody Rhodes’ title reign concluded just over a year after his WrestleMania 40 victory against Roman Reigns, while Cena’s last WrestleMania showing left fans in a state of astonishment and disagreement.