John Cena Says Backlash Announcement Will ‘Shock The Very Foundation Of WWE’

John Cena promises a major announcement at WWE Backlash.

On May 4, John Cena revealed that he will be at Backlash this Saturday at the Benchmark International Arena to reveal “history-making news.” Whilst it remains unclear what the announcement will involve, Cena is once again building anticipation ahead of the event.

Taking to X to promote his Backlash appearance, John Cena promised an announcement that will have major ramifications for the entirety of WWE.

“In just a few days, I have a major announcement that is gonna shock the very foundation of WWE. From its fans to its superstars. From its champions down to its rookies.”

-John Cena

According to BodySlam, John Cena’s Backlash appearance was agreed upon several weeks prior to the company’s announcement, with Cena living in the Tampa area making it an easy appearance for the record-setting 17-time former world champion.

John Cena’s last WWE appearance came at WrestleMania 42 across April 18 and 19, with the now-retired Superstar hosting the two-night event and revealing the attendance at Allegiant Stadium.

Despite his in-ring career coming to an end at Saturday Night’s Main Event on December 13, 2025, John Cena’s WWE contract reportedly calls for further appearances, meaning it is unlikely this will be the last time fans see Cena at a WWE premium live event. You can read more about that here.

Elsewhere at Backlash: Tampa, Roman Reigns will defend the World Heavyweight Championship against Jacob Fatu, while the long-awaited singles match between IYO SKY and Asuka is also set to take place.

You can find more on the latest WWE news ahead of Backlash: Tampa here.

As always, we’ll aim to provide any further updates on John Cena’s “history-making” announcement as soon as we hear more.

If you use any of the quotes above, please credit the original source with a h/t and link back to WrestlePurists.com for the transcription.