As previously reported, WWE legend and 17-time World Champion John Cena announced the John Cena Classic tournament during the 2026 WWE Backlash premium live event. Although details are still emerging, the tournament will feature NXT talents competing against main roster stars, with fans voting to determine the winner of the John Cena Classic Championship. It’s suggested that even a wrestler who loses matches could still win the title through fan votes.
WWE Men’s Speed Champion Lexis King took to Twitter (X) to share that he inspired Cena to create the tournament. He wrote, “I’ve had some great talks with John Cena at the PC over the past couple of years, he has given me some life-changing advice on several occasions…”
King also posted a photo of The Rock and added, “and then I said, ‘You should host a tournament, call it the John Cena Classic.’”
As of now, Cena has not responded to King’s statement, and there is no information yet on when the John Cena Classic will take place. Updates will be provided as they become available.
I’ve had some great talks with John Cena at the PC over the past couple of years, he has given me some life-changing advice on several occasions… pic.twitter.com/uHpLWUD4JK
— King (@LexisKingWWE) May 10, 2026