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John Cena Closes Rivalry With Randy Orton Thanks to Cheap Shot at 'Backlash'

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Fernando Quiles Jr. | Last updated May 11, 2025 9:46 AM ET

John Cena may have ended his feud with Randy Orton for good.

Cena put the top male prize on the "WWE SmackDown" brand at stake against his old rival Randy Orton at "Backlash 2025." It was an Undisputed WWE Championship that featured outside interference, which the 17-time world champion took full advantage of.

Orton was setting up for a punt kick when R-Truth prevented "The Viper" from striking. R-Truth took an RKO for his efforts. Cena ended up hitting Orton with a low blow before clocking him with a shot from his championship. He then pinned Orton to successfully defend the title.

R-Truth couldn't let that happen! #WWEBacklash pic.twitter.com/JSYZsrTrcQ
— WWE (@WWE) May 11, 2025

Orton had the hometown advantage, as "Backlash" was held inside Enterprise Center in St. Louis. It wasn't enough for "The Viper" to win his 15th world championship, as Cena bent the rules to keep his historic 17th world title reign intact.

Many wondered if Cody Rhodes would make a surprise appearance, but it wasn't meant to be. Rhodes lost the Undisputed WWE Championship at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on April 20.

Cena was the one who ended Rhodes' reign with the Undisputed WWE Championship. The two headlined "WrestleMania Sunday." Cena pinned Rhodes after a belt shot to the head and interference from music star Travis Scott.

Fans are now left to wonder when Rhodes will get his rematch against Cena. Rhodes is reportedly scheduled to be back on the road full-time soon. Whether he'll rekindle his rivalry with Cena upon his return remains to be seen, but it's been expected by many fans.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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