WWE SmackDown Showdown: Rhodes, Orton, and Knight Confront Cena

 On the June 13, 2025, episode of WWE SmackDown, the wrestling world was electrified as Cody Rhodes, Randy Orton, and LA Knight confronted Undisputed WWE Champion John Cena in a fiery opening segment that set the stage for intense rivalries. The confrontation, marked by sharp promos and a surprise attack, showcased the ambitions of three top superstars gunning for Cena’s title as he navigates his 2025 retirement tour.

WWE SmackDown Showdown: Rhodes, Orton, and Knight Confront Cena

John Cena, fresh off his record-setting 17th WWE Championship win at WrestleMania 41, opened SmackDown with a bold promo, outlining his controversial plan to “ruin wrestling” before retiring. His heel persona, solidified after defeating Cody Rhodes with help from Travis Scott, has made him a polarizing figure. Cena’s claim of being the “last real champion” was met with boos, setting the stage for the interruptions that followed.

Cody Rhodes was the first to challenge Cena, storming the ring to remind the champion of his pinfall victory over him at Money in the Bank. Rhodes, still stinging from his WrestleMania loss, accused Cena of conveniently omitting their past encounter, asserting, “I’m not a part of your plans, you’re a part of mine.” The crowd roared as Rhodes positioned himself as the rightful challenger, vowing to reclaim the title he held for 378 days.

WWE SmackDown Showdown: Rhodes, Orton, and Knight Confront Cena

Randy Orton, the hometown hero and 14-time world champion, entered next, intensifying the segment. Orton, who previously hit Cena with an RKO on Raw after WrestleMania, referenced his victory over Cena at Backlash, claiming he had the champion “visually beat.” He declared his intent to win the King of the Ring tournament and pursue his 15th world title, even if it meant going through Rhodes or anyone else. Orton’s raw emotion and history with Cena added a nostalgic yet fierce edge to the confrontation.

LA Knight, never one to shy away from the spotlight, joined the fray, cutting a promo that electrified the audience. He expressed his willingness to disrupt the established order, outlining his plan to win the King of the Ring tournament and challenge Cena for the WWE Championship at SummerSlam. Knight’s confidence and charisma shone through as he positioned himself as a wildcard in the title picture, ready to seize his moment against wrestling’s biggest name.

WWE SmackDown Showdown: Rhodes, Orton, and Knight Confront Cena

As tensions boiled over, Cena attempted to exit, leaving his challengers to bicker. However, the segment took a shocking turn when Ron Killings, known as R-Truth, ambushed Cena on the ramp. R-Truth, who had previously cost Cena a tag team match at Money in the Bank, attacked until security intervened, adding another layer of chaos to the already volatile situation. This unexpected assault underscored the unpredictability surrounding Cena’s title reign.

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The segment was a masterclass in storytelling, blending personal rivalries, championship ambitions, and surprise twists. Rhodes, Orton, and Knight each staked their claim, setting up potential blockbuster matches as Cena’s retirement tour continues. With the King of the Ring tournament looming, the paths of these superstars are set to collide, promising high-stakes drama and unforgettable moments. Fans on social media buzzed with excitement, calling the promo “peak” and praising the star power in the ring. As Cena navigates his final 27 appearances, the question remains: who will dethrone the 17-time champion?