When Did John Cena Come Back to WWE? A Timeline of His Iconic Returns
Hey there, wrestling fans! Today, we're diving into the world of WWE to talk about one of its most iconic superstars, John Cena, and when he came back to the ring after some time away. So, grab your popcorn and let's get started! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and when did john cena come back to wwe.
John Cena's WWE Debut and Early Years
Before we talk about his returns, let's set the stage with a brief recap of John Cena's WWE debut. The future 16-time world champion made his debut on the June 27, 2002, episode of Raw. Cena quickly became a fan favorite with his unique blend of mic skills, charisma, and in-ring ability. He won his first WWE Championship in 2005 and held it for an impressive 280 days.
The First Hiatus: 2016 - 2017
After a decade of dominance, Cena took a step back in 2016 to focus on his acting career. He appeared sporadically on WWE programming, but his in-ring presence was missed. So, when did John Cena come back to WWE? The answer is January 29, 2017, at the Royal Rumble. Cena entered the match at number 2 and put on an impressive performance, ultimately finishing in a respectable 9th place. This return marked the beginning of Cena's road to WrestleMania 33, where he challenged and defeated The Undertaker in a highly anticipated match.
The Injury and Comeback: 2017 - 2018
After WrestleMania, Cena suffered a torn rotator cuff and underwent surgery, keeping him out of action for several months. Fans eagerly awaited his return, and they got it on August 20, 2017, at SummerSlam. Cena challenged and lost to then-WWE Champion Jinder Mahal, but his return was just the beginning of a heated rivalry. Cena continued to appear on WWE programming, but it wasn't until April 8, 2018, at WrestleMania 34 that he truly made his comeback. Cena challenged and defeated The Undertaker in a career-threatening Casket Match, solidifying his status as one of the greatest of all time.
The Hollywood Hiatus and Return: 2018 - Present
Following his WrestleMania victory, Cena returned to his acting career, taking on more movie roles. His in-ring appearances became scarce, but WWE fans knew he would always come back. And he did, in a big way, at WrestleMania 36 on April 4, 2020. Cena returned to challenge and defeat Bray Wyatt, further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest WrestleMania performers of all time.
John Cena's Impact on WWE
When John Cena came back to WWE, it was always a big deal. His returns have consistently been met with thunderous ovations and have often marked the beginning of new storylines and rivalries. Cena's impact on WWE cannot be overstated. He has been a mentor to countless younger superstars, and his work ethic and dedication have set a high standard for the entire locker room.
Looking Ahead: What's Next for John Cena?
As we look to the future, the question on every WWE fan's mind is, "When will John Cena come back to WWE next?" Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: whenever Cena returns, it will be a moment to remember. Until then, we'll continue to enjoy his previous returns and appreciate the incredible legacy he has built in WWE.
So, there you have it, folks! A timeline of John Cena's returns to WWE. We hope you enjoyed this trip down memory lane. Don't forget to share your favorite Cena moments in the comments below. Until next time, stay Cena-ful!