Cody Rhodes Says WrestleMania 41 Showdown with John Cena Feels Like 'First-Time-Ever' Event

The pro wrestling world is buzzing as Cody Rhodes and John Cena gear up for their highly anticipated showdown at WrestleMania 41. With the Undisputed WWE Championship on the line, this matchup promises to be as dramatic as it is historic.

John Cena, who recently clinched victory in the men's Elimination Chamber match, has taken an unexpected turn by aligning with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and stepping into the role of an antagonist. His shocking heel turn, punctuated by a cheap shot at Cody Rhodes, has launched Cena’s quest for a record-breaking 17th world title. To say the stakes are high would be an understatement.

Cena’s transformation from the fan-favorite "hustle, loyalty, and respect" persona to a villainous figure marks a significant departure from his long-standing career as a beloved babyface in WWE. While fans have occasionally booed and jeered him in the past, Cena has always been the good guy – until now. And what’s more intriguing? This heel turn comes as the curtain starts to close on what’s rumored to be his final year in professional wrestling.

Speaking to Fox News Digital ahead of "Monday Night Raw" in London, Cody Rhodes reflected on what makes this matchup feel entirely fresh. "I really look at it like it’s the first time ever," Rhodes shared. "John was someone who came in with a clear vision of who he was going to be, and he carried WWE through a transitional period with discipline and determination. For me, he’s always been that benchmark – good guy or bad guy – who forces you to step up or risk being left behind."

Rhodes, who is also promoting WWE's partnership with Clash of Clans, admitted he never envisioned facing Cena in a WrestleMania main event, much less under these circumstances. "Looking at this matchup now, it feels like a first-time-ever for me," he admitted. "Early in my career, I didn’t know who I was. Now, after years of growth and these recent interactions with Cena, it’s like we truly understand who the other person is. And honestly, I couldn’t have dreamed this scenario up. That’s the beauty of pro wrestling – it’s unpredictable."

The tension between the two reached a boiling point during the latest episode of "Monday Night Raw," where they traded insults in an intense face-off. Rhodes ultimately got the upper hand, delivering his signature move, Cross Rhodes, leaving Cena sprawled out in the ring. If this encounter was any indication, their WrestleMania 41 clash is set to be explosive.

With WrestleMania 41 set to take place in Las Vegas on April 19-20, fans are eagerly awaiting what might be one of the most compelling storylines in recent WWE history. Cena’s heel turn, Rhodes’ rise, and the stakes of the Undisputed WWE Championship make this a must-watch event.