💔 “I Grew Up With Him in This Business” — Randy Orton’s Emotional Message to John Cena After His Final Match Will Hit You Hard
John Cena’s legendary WWE journey came to an end on Saturday, December 13, and while the entire wrestling world was watching, one of the people who mattered most wasn’t able to be there in person — his greatest rival.
Randy Orton and John Cena didn’t just define an era. They were the era. From ruthless aggression to WrestleMania main events, the two icons shared the ring countless times, pushing each other to heights few wrestlers ever reach.
Cena wrestled his retirement match against GUNTHER, closing the book on one of the most iconic careers in WWE history. Orton, however, was halfway across the world in Saudi Arabia, fulfilling WWE promotional commitments for Riyadh Season and the Royal Rumble.
Still, the Viper made sure his voice was heard.
Taking to Instagram, Orton shared a heartfelt tribute that pulled back the curtain on their bond — not just as rivals, but as brothers in the business.
“I broke into the wrestling business and grew up for the past two decades alongside @JohnCena. I wrestled with or against him 100 times, at least. I would’ve loved to be there in DC to witness his emotional send-off… but if anyone understands my absence, it’s John.”
Orton revealed that the two exchanged texts on the very morning of Cena’s retirement, a quiet but powerful moment between men who helped shape WWE’s modern history.
He went on to praise Cena’s influence inside and outside the ring, calling him one of the most “over” wrestlers of all time and thanking him for making the locker room a better place — and for being there for Orton’s family over the years.
“Sky’s the limit with this guy. An inspiration not just to generations of fans, but to me personally — someone lucky enough to learn firsthand from him.”
While Cena steps away from WWE competition, Orton made it clear this isn’t goodbye forever. With Cena thriving in Hollywood and beyond, the respect between these two legends remains unbreakable.
One rivalry. Two icons. A bond that will outlive the ring.
