Professional wrestling history was made on October 30, 2023, as John Cena performed his final match on WWE’s “Raw” at the iconic Madison Square Garden. This venue, renowned for its significance in wrestling, served as the backdrop for a night filled with excitement, culminating in a tag team match that showcased Cena alongside legends Rey Mysterio and Sheamus. The event not only attracted a full house but also featured key title changes and surprise returns, enhancing the electrifying atmosphere.
The main event saw Cena, Mysterio, and Sheamus triumph over The Judgement Day, consisting of Dominik Mysterio, Finn Balor, and JD McDonagh. The match was a highlight reel of signature moves, including a memorable triple execution of Cena’s Five Knuckle Shuffle, humorously dubbed the “15 Knuckle Shuffle” by commentator Joe Tessitore. The crowd erupted as the trio displayed their chemistry and skill, making Cena’s farewell match both joyous and nostalgic.
In addition to the thrilling tag team match, WWE announced that Cena would defend the Intercontinental Championship against Dominik Mysterio at the upcoming Survivor Series: WarGames, set to take place in Dominik’s hometown of San Diego. The stakes are high, reminiscent of Cena’s past battles, particularly his historic “home and home” series against Edge in 2006.
The night also featured a significant victory for Maxxine Dupri, who claimed the Women’s Intercontinental Championship by defeating Becky Lynch. This victory was aided by a distraction from AJ Lee, suggesting that Lynch may soon have a rematch on her hands. Following this, Rhea Ripley requested time with Lee backstage, hinting at potential developments for the Survivor Series.
Another standout performance came from NXT’s Je’Von Evans, who faced Gunther in the Last Time Is Now tournament. Despite his loss, Evans showcased his talent and agility, affirming his rising status in WWE at just 21 years of age. Gunther’s victory positions him as a strong contender for the tournament’s title, potentially setting up a future match against Cena.
The evening also welcomed back Dolph Ziggler, a former two-time world champion, who made a surprise return in a match against Solo Sikoa. Although Ziggler was defeated, his performance demonstrated that he remains a formidable competitor. The impact of his return raises questions about his future engagements with WWE, especially following Zack Ryder’s recent move to “SmackDown.”
As WWE continues to build momentum heading into the Survivor Series, the excitement from Cena’s farewell and the night’s various matchups leave fans eager for what is to come. The energy in Madison Square Garden was palpable, marking a significant chapter in WWE’s storied history.
