MANILA — John Cena became a 17-time WWE Champion at WrestleMania 41, breaking Ric Flair’s long-held record. The historic win came after he defeated Cody Rhodes in what he billed as his final WrestleMania appearance.
Held at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, the event saw 63,226 fans witness Cena hit a low blow and use the championship belt on Rhodes while the referee was down to score the pinfall.
Rhodes, who had a 378-day reign as Undisputed Champion, chose not to strike Cena with the belt during the referee’s absence. Cena capitalized on that moment.
“You guys are just looking for headlines, so I’ll give you one: Tune in to Monday Night Raw, and see how I ruin wrestling,” Cena said in the post-match press conference.
Meanwhile, Becky Lynch made a triumphant return, replacing Bayley and teaming with Lyra Valkyria to capture the Women’s Tag Team Championship from Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez.
Iyo Sky retained her Women’s World Championship in a triple-threat match, pinning Bianca Belair after a well-timed moonsault.
Dominik Mysterio captured his first singles title on the main roster, winning the Intercontinental Championship in a Fatal 4-Way against Bron Breakker, Penta, and Finn Balor.
Randy Orton also returned in style, issuing an open challenge and defeating TNA World Champion Joe Hendry with an RKO.
Drew McIntyre defeated Damian Priest in a brutal Sin City Street Fight, while Logan Paul continued his momentum by overcoming AJ Styles.
The night ended with a surprise appearance by WWE legend “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, who announced the total WrestleMania 41 gate of 124,693. Austin, riding his signature ATV, accidentally crashed into the barricade and struck a fan during his entrance.