Cena vs. Cody: SmackDown Showdown Before MITB 2025

WWE SmackDown is heating up tonight as two of the company’s biggest stars—John Cena and Cody Rhodes—are set to collide in a face-to-face showdown. The highly anticipated segment will unfold live from the historic Thompson-Boling Arena in Knoxville, Tennessee, and fans are bracing for a dramatic fallout from Saturday Night’s Main Event (SNME 39).

Cena’s SNME Chaos Sparks MITB Clash

John Cena, known for his "Big Match" moments, stirred controversy last Saturday after defeating R-Truth in a one-sided bout. The post-match beatdown shocked fans as Cena struck the beloved rapping superstar with a belt, displaying a darker edge.

Later that same night, Cena tried to interfere in the World Heavyweight Championship match between Logan Paul and Jey Uso. However, a returning Cody Rhodes emerged to thwart his attempt, leading to a wild confrontation that shook the main event scene.

WWE wasted no time capitalizing on the momentum, announcing a blockbuster tag team match for Money in the Bank 2025:
John Cena & Logan Paul vs. Jey Uso & Cody Rhodes.

Confirmed: Cena and Cody Face-to-Face Tonight

#SmackDown GM @RealNickAldis gives a rundown for tonight’s MASSIVE #SmackDown! ???

? 8ET/7CT on @USANetwork pic.twitter.com/s1yqdVJWVA — WWE (@WWE) May 30, 2025

WWE SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis took to X (formerly Twitter) ahead of tonight’s show to confirm that Cena and Cody will meet in the ring.

“Tonight, John Cena and Cody Rhodes will go face-to-face in this very ring. Tonight in Knoxville, Tennessee… that's 8/7c on USA. SmackDown.” — Nick Aldis on X

The announcement has electrified the WWE Universe. Given Cena’s veteran status and Cody's meteoric rise, their confrontation is expected to be one of the most intense moments on the road to Money in the Bank.

Historic Knoxville Arena Sets the Stage

SmackDown will broadcast live from the Thompson-Boling Arena, a venue with deep wrestling history. Interestingly, John Cena wrestled here during his early days in Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW) as “The Prototype.” For Cody Rhodes, the Knoxville crowd is always a rowdy favorite, and the energy tonight is expected to reach fever pitch.

More High-Stakes Matches Announced

Tonight’s SmackDown is stacked with crucial Money in the Bank qualifying matches:

• Women’s MITB Qualifier: Nia Jax vs. Naomi vs. Jade Cargill

• Men’s MITB Qualifier: Carmelo Hayes vs. Jacob Fatu vs. Andrade

Also, Bianca Belair returns to her hometown for a long-awaited homecoming celebration, which could see an interruption from rising challengers looking to make a statement.

What’s at Stake?

With Money in the Bank 2025 set for June 7 in Los Angeles, the stakes are higher than ever. Cena and Cody’s showdown could set the tone for their tag match—and potentially ignite a personal rivalry that lasts well beyond the pay-per-view.

Fans tuning in tonight could witness the next major chapter in a story that mixes legacy, ego, and WWE’s future.