Wrestling legend and inductee into the WWE Hall of Fame, Rikishi, has openly shared his excitement about how WWE would bid farewell to John Cena before his impending retirement in 2025. This revelation was made during the Money in the Bank episode in 2024, where Cena publicized that his professional wrestling career, spanning 23 years on the core roster, will be coming to a close in 2025.
Rikishi, during a recent episode of his signature podcast “Off The Top”, reflected on his history with Cena and his expectations for the superstar’s imminent retirement. Rikishi is quoted as saying, “When [John Cena] first made his appearance, he was a raw talent, a diamond in the rough… And they started sculpting him to ascend to the top… I’m thrilled and can’t wait to see John’s grand exit … The best way to honor his journey is to bid him adieu with accomplishments that underscore his success.”
“If for some reason I’m not there physically, you can bet that I’ll be there in spirit and watching closely,” he adds.
During their WWE journey, Rikishi and Cena crossed paths in a wrestling ring 12 times, their maiden face-off being a tag team contest in August 2002 where they teamed up and emerged victorious against Reverand D-Von and Deacon Batista.
In solo encounters, Cena and Rikishi clashed six times, where Rikishi secured victory in four of the contests.