John Cena confirmed Cody Rhodes for the inaugural John Cena Classic (Image via WWE)
It is important to note that the John Cena Classic was first announced by John Cena at WWE Backlash in May 2026. The reason behind selecting the American Nightmare is that the 17-time world champion believes Rhodes possesses the qualities needed to represent the new event, describing him as a cornerstone of WWE, a franchise player, and a globally recognised name. Those are my earliest interactions with Joe, and then we’ve gone on to have such an incredible history together,” the 17-time world champion added. Join conversation Share your thoughts in the comments Be respectful · TOI community guidelines The inaugural John Cena Classic is scheduled for December 14, 2026, at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida.
During an interview with Sports Illustrated’s The TakeDown, Cena revealed why he selected and highlighted Rhodes’ passion for professional wrestling, including its history and business operations.
Cena said, “I love Cody so much. The event showcases talent from both WWE’s main roster and NXT, giving emerging and under-recognized Superstars a chance to gain greater exposure. But why did he choose the American Nightmare as his first invitee at the event? Let’s find out the reason behind it. WWE legend John Cena has explained why he selected Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes as the first invitee for the inaugural John Cena Classic . I needed a first invitee who is a cornerstone, franchise player, and a global name. And also someone who just loves all the minutiae of the business. Someone who will sit at a corporate round table all day and then go talk to our historians in the warehouse and then go do media, only to have an hour cage match where he gets his eye busted open at the end of the night. He praised Rhodes for his involvement in different aspects of the wrestling business, noting that the American Nightmare can participate in corporate discussions, spend time with WWE historians, handle media commitments, and still deliver high-level performances inside the ring. Cena also discussed his decision to select Zilla Fatu as the first NXT representative for the John Cena Classic. He further added that his personal relationship with the Anoa’i family played an important role in the decision. The WWE veteran recalled how Rikishi mentored him and spoke about his longstanding relationship with Dwayne Johnson , Roman Reigns , The Usos, and Solo Sikoa. “I’m kind of honorary, you know? Rikishi was such a mentor to me, and goodness, did I go through hell and back with Dwayne. I remember talking to Joe Anoaʻi [Roman Reigns] in FCW like, ‘Hey, man, you’re saying you’re this rich baller, and you’re coming out in an ill-fitting suit. Be you, be authentic, and say what you mean. The event will feature exhibition matches between WWE’s main roster and NXT superstars. The event will showcase talent from both brands, with men’s and women’s John Cena Classic champions to be determined through voting by Club WWE members.
The first John Cena Classic is scheduled to be held on December 14, 2026, at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida.
John Cena recently finalized the event date, according to reports. As WWE legend John Cena gears up to host the inaugural season of John Cena Classic, the Cenation Leader has named Cody Rhodes as the first invitee.
As of now, only Rhodes and Fatu are the first two announced participants, while additional names are expected to be revealed in the coming weeks. Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.