John Cena Wins 17th World Title at WrestleMania 41, Surpasses Ric Flair’s Record – In a moment that will be remembered as one of the most monumental in WWE history, John Cena captured the Undisputed WWE Championship on Sunday night at WrestleMania 41, defeating Cody Rhodes and securing his record-breaking 17th World Title. The victory ends Flair’s long-held position as the most decorated world champion in professional wrestling history, a distinction he held for decades with 16 recognized reigns.
This was Cena’s first world title win since 2017, and it came at a pivotal moment in his career, with the 46-year-old WWE legend expected to wrap up his in-ring tenure this year. WrestleMania 41 had already been buzzing with anticipation, but Cena’s victory took the spotlight on Night Two.
The match was emotional and chaotic, with heavy callbacks to the controversial Elimination Chamber event earlier this year where Cena turned heel for the first time in his career by attacking Rhodes. That match also featured a surprise slap from rapper Travis Scott, which storyline-wise, ruptured Rhodes’ eardrum.
At WrestleMania 41, Scott returned and once again became an integral part of the story. As both men were down late in the match, Scott walked to the ring and was embraced by Cena, who lifted his hand and invited him to slap Rhodes again. Rhodes avoided the blow and responded with a Cross Rhodes, but Scott pulled the referee out of the ring, breaking up a sure win.
Rhodes brought Scott into the ring and hit him with another Cross Rhodes. Just as Rhodes tried to finish Cena, the 17-time champion played possum, luring Rhodes in with a desperate plea before delivering a low blow. Cena then struck Rhodes with the championship belt, revived the referee, and made the cover for the win.
Cena celebrated alongside Scott as fireworks lit up the arena, bringing WrestleMania 41 to a close. Ric Flair later took to social media to congratulate Cena, calling him one of the greatest of all time.
The win ends the year-plus title run for Rhodes that began at last April’s WrestleMania 40 with his victory over Roman Reigns that completed his “story” to win his first major World title.
John Cena Wins 17th World Title at WrestleMania 41, Surpasses Ric Flair’s Record
