John Cena has announced the creation of the John Cena Classic, a new WWE event that will introduce a championship decided entirely by fan voting.
Cena revealed the concept during an in-ring segment at the Backlash premium live event in Tampa, Florida.
The John Cena Classic will feature established main roster talent competing against performers from the NXT brand. Cena stated his intention for the showcase to become an annual tradition for the company.
The event will culminate in the awarding of a new championship bearing Cena’s name. In a departure from traditional professional wrestling formats, the title will be awarded based on audience votes rather than match outcomes.
Cena explained that a competitor could lose their scheduled contest but still win the championship if their overall performance earns the support of the viewing audience.
Addressing the crowd, Cena reflected on his final professional match at a recent edition of Saturday Night’s Main Event. He expressed satisfaction that his last appearance served as a platform for emerging talent.
He specifically highlighted NXT roster members Sol Ruca, Je’Von Evans, and Oba Femi. Cena praised Femi’s rapid ascent, noting the rookie’s recent victory over Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania.
WWE has not yet announced a date or location for the inaugural John Cena Classic.
