🔥“Did You Catch It?” John Cena Secretly Paid Tribute to AEW Star During WWE Crown Jewel Match – Fans Completely Missed It!
John Cena knows how to make every moment count — even on his farewell tour. During his emotional clash with AJ Styles at WWE Crown Jewel 2025, the 16-time World Champion slipped in a sneaky tribute to a former WWE legend turned AEW star — and most fans didn’t even notice!
The epic showdown between Cena and Styles had fans on the edge of their seats. Both men brought their A-game, trading iconic moves and callbacks to their legendary rivals. From The Undertaker’s intensity to Randy Orton’s precision, Cena channeled the ghosts of WWE past. But one moment, in particular, left eagle-eyed fans buzzing online.
As Styles mocked Cena by going for the famous Five Knuckle Shuffle, Cena countered mid-motion — grabbing Styles by the throat and slamming him with a massive chokeslam. The move instantly reminded fans of Paul Wight — the former Big Show — who now wrestles for AEW.
At first glance, many thought the move was a nod to Kane or The Undertaker, but it was Cena’s subtle way of paying respect to his old friend and former rival. Wight, who hasn’t wrestled in AEW since 2023, was also briefly featured in a SmackDown video package last month — showing WWE isn’t afraid to tip their hat to a few familiar faces across the aisle.
That clip showcased Cena’s unforgettable WrestleMania 25 moment, where he lifted both Edge and Big Show at once for a jaw-dropping double AA — one of the most iconic feats of strength in WWE history.
As Cena’s retirement tour continues, the veteran seems determined to make every match a love letter to wrestling itself — honoring the legends who defined eras alongside him, whether they’re in WWE or AEW.
One thing’s for sure — John Cena’s farewell run is turning into a masterclass in storytelling, respect, and nostalgia.
