“…and NEW!”
Those iconic words echoed throughout Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on Sunday night as John Cena etched his name into the history books once again — becoming a record 17-time World Champion and surpassing Ric Flair’s long-held mark to become the most decorated world champion in professional wrestling history.
In the main event of WrestleMania 41 Night Two, Cena defeated Cody Rhodes in a controversial, hard-fought battle that headlined WWE’s two-night spectacle on April 20, 2025.
The match was a rollercoaster of emotion and drama, culminating in a moment that stunned the WWE Universe. As the action reached its crescendo, music icon Travis Scott made a surprise appearance, walking down to the WrestleMania theme he produced for this year’s event. Draped with a replica WWE Hardcore Championship over his shoulder, Scott appeared to be playing a neutral observer until Cody Rhodes challenged him to step into the ring. Without hesitation, Cody laid him out with a Cross-Rhodes, electrifying the crowd.
However, this distraction proved costly.
As Rhodes turned back toward Cena, the 16-time world champion attempted a cheap shot with the title belt. Cody blocked the attack and briefly gained the upper hand, even holding the title in his grasp. Cena backed off, pleading for mercy, playing into the psychological warfare he had waged pre-match — daring Cody to abandon his morals and “finish the story” by any means necessary.
Cody, ever the valiant hero, refused to cheat — and paid the ultimate price. Cena blindsided Rhodes with a low blow, followed by a vicious title shot to the head. Seconds later, the referee counted the three, and history was made.
John Cena is now WWE’s only 17-time World Champion.
While fans in attendance were shocked by the underhanded tactics, the moment was undeniably historic. Cena’s post-match celebration was equal parts triumphant and antagonistic, cementing his recent heel turn and ushering in a new — and potentially final — chapter of his legendary career.
Stay tuned to PWMania.com for more WrestleMania fallout and updates on the implications of Cena’s historic win.
Click here for complete WrestleMania 41 results.
