John Cena Becomes 17-Time World Champion, Breaks Ric Flair’s Legendary WWE Record
John Cena Becomes 17-Time World Champion, Breaks Ric Flair’s Legendary WWE Record
Wrestling icon John Cena makes history at WrestleMania 41 by defeating Cody Rhodes for his 17th world title, as Ric Flair congratulates his “great friend” and acknowledges a new all-time record holder in WWE.
📍 Las Vegas | April 21, 2025
John Cenahas officially become the most decorated professional wrestler in WWE history. At WrestleMania 41, held at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, the 16-time world champion overcame Cody Rhodes in a blockbuster main event to capture his record-breaking 17th World Championship, surpassing Ric Flair’s iconic legacy.
The match was not only a clash between two generations of WWE superstars but also a historic moment that reshaped the record books of professional wrestling.
🐐 Ric Flair Reacts: “It Was Only a Matter of Time”
Soon after Cena’s win, Ric Flair — the man whose 16-title record stood for decades — responded with grace and admiration.
“Congrats to my great friend @JohnCena on becoming a 17x champion! It was only a matter of time! You and @CodyRhodes put on an instant classic! Much respect! WOOOOO!” Flair posted on X (formerly Twitter), along with a nostalgic photo of the two legends. 📸 See Flair’s full post here
🏆 Cena’s Legacy Sealed — But Is It the End?
Now 48 years old, Cena had previously announced plans to retire from in-ring competition by 2025, sparking speculation that WrestleMania 41 could be his final bout.
But his statement after the match hinted otherwise:
“I will win that championship and retire with it. I’m taking it home with me. I’m leaving all of you to create a brand new toy belt because the real one comes home with me,” he declared, adding, “I will be the last real champion in WWE.”
His 25-year wrestling career, which includes multiple Royal Rumble victories, WrestleMania main events, and legendary rivalries, has now reached its pinnacle.
🎬 From Hollywood to History Books
While Cena successfully transitioned to Hollywood stardom after his breakout in the 2015 film Trainwreck, he made it clear in early 2025 that he had unfinished business in WWE — to break Ric Flair’s title record.
This monumental victory caps off that mission and leaves fans wondering whether Cena’s journey ends here — or if he will defend the title one final time before calling it a career.
📌 Tags:
John Cena, Ric Flair, WrestleMania 41, WWE Championship, Cody Rhodes, WWE History, 17-Time World Champion, WWE Records, Wrestling Legends, Cena Retirement, Flair Record, WrestleMania Main Event, WWE Hall of Fame
