WWE Plans John Cena Classic for December 14

WWE is planning the inaugural John Cena Classic for December 14, 2026, with Club WWE members voting for male and female winners after exhibition matches between main-roster and NXT wrestlers. John Cena said the event may not return the following year if the concept does not work.

The showcase is scheduled as part of Monday Night Raw. Cena described a format in which the matches are exhibitions rather than a tournament bracket: each wrestler has one match, and match results do not determine the fan-vote winners. Club WWE members will cast votes after the matches, with separate winners for the men’s and women’s divisions.

Cody Rhodes and Zilla Fatu were identified as the first invited competitors. Cena said he had filmed invitations for all invitees, though the full roster was not reported. The matches are expected to pair main-roster performers with NXT wrestlers.

Cena said WWE agreed to try the event and that it would not have to repeat it next year if it does not succeed. The inaugural show will therefore test the format before any decision about a second edition. No further decision on the event’s future was announced.

The planned event falls just before Cena’s annual holiday...