John Cena’s Final Wish Granted: WWE Greenlights NXT vs. Main Roster Showcase for Saturday Night’s Main Event

John Cena’s farewell tour isn’t just about one last match — it’s about legacy. The “Greatest of All Time” is proving once again that he’s committed to leaving WWE better than he found it, and now, one of his biggest final requests is becoming reality.

According to multiple reports, WWE has officially granted John Cena’s request to include a series of exhibition matches pitting NXT talent against main roster stars at Saturday Night’s Main Event on December 13 at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C.

The announcement was made during Cena’s emotional final Raw appearance at the TD Garden in Boston, where he not only delivered a passionate hometown farewell — but also captured the Intercontinental Championship after defeating Dominik Mysterio in the opening match of the night. The victory made Cena a Grand Slam Champion, but what came next could prove even more important for the future of the company.

Cena’s Vision for the Future

Cena revealed during his Raw address that, in addition to his final match taking place at Saturday Night’s Main Event, the show would also feature a special slate of exhibition bouts designed to spotlight NXT’s rising stars. The idea reportedly came directly from Cena himself, who spent time recently at the WWE Performance Center mentoring talent and observing their progress firsthand.

According to BodySlam.net and The Wrestling Observer, Cena personally pitched the concept to WWE executives — emphasizing that he wanted to give the next generation a meaningful opportunity to shine on the same night he steps away from the ring for good.

“Cena enjoyed everything about his time visiting the Performance Center and wanted to give talent a chance to be showcased and leave the business in a better place on his way out,”
 – BodySlam report

While no official matchups have been confirmed yet, potential names being discussed include NXT Champion Ricky Saints, Tatum Paxley, former champions Oba Femi and Jacy Jayne, and breakout sensation Je’Von Evans — who’s already slated to face Gunther in the opening round of the “The Last Time is Now” tournament next week at Madison Square Garden.

If approved, the NXT vs. main roster exhibition series could serve as one of the most unique tributes to Cena’s career — a passing of the torch moment perfectly fitting for a superstar who has always preached “Never Give Up.”

🗣️ Wrestling.news | Backstage Take

John Cena’s influence continues to shape WWE, even in his final days as an active performer. This isn’t just another retirement tour — it’s a masterclass in leadership and legacy. Cena’s push to spotlight NXT talent shows why he’s still regarded as the heart of the locker room. The fact that WWE granted his idea tells you everything about the respect he commands behind the scenes. Expect this crossover to deliver some emotional, once-in-a-lifetime encounters — a night where past, present, and future collide in true “Cena style.”

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