John Cena, WWE and Hollywood icon, is gearing up for his retirement tour, set to begin in early 2025. As WWE prepares for Cena’s final run, with his return slated for the first “WWE Raw” on Netflix in January, many stars have been reflecting on his legacy and impact. Cody Rhodes, the current Undisputed WWE Champion, recently spoke with SPORTbible about both his own WWE return after helping launch AEW and Cena’s impending farewell tour. Rhodes shared insights into the rules and traditions within WWE, mentioning that, like Cena, he was allowed to break certain established norms upon his return.

One unique exception, Rhodes revealed, is a rule that only Cena is permitted to break. “A big on-air rule, which is great for production, is not talking directly into the camera,” Rhodes explained. “That’s John’s thing. He talks to the camera, mentions Stu the cameraman, and then runs to the ring. It’s his signature move, and no one else, not even myself, is supposed to do it.” Rhodes acknowledged that the rule exists in part because of Cena’s iconic connection with fans through his direct camera engagement, adding, “Until someone surpasses him, that rule is his.”

Cena had initially announced his retirement tour during Money in the Bank back in July, specifying that the 2025 Royal Rumble and WrestleMania 41 will be his final in-ring performances. However, it’s since been clarified that Cena plans to compete throughout the entire year before officially stepping away from the squared circle.