John Cena officially wrapped up his WWE career on December 13, 2025, at Saturday Night’s Main Event in Washington, D.C. It didn’t take long for fans to start wondering if he would headline the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2026. While that seemed like the obvious move, a new report suggests WWE is going in a different direction.
Cena is a future Hall of Famer for sure. His résumé speaks for itself- 17 world championships, Grand Slam Champion honors, Royal Rumble wins, multiple main events at WrestleMania, and over a decade as the face of WWE.
His impact goes well beyond the ring, too. Cena holds the record for most Make-A-Wish requests fulfilled, dominated merchandise sales for years, and successfully crossed over into Hollywood.
Cena ended a legendary WWE run that lasted for 23 years. He lost against Gunther in his final match and left his shoes and wristbands inside the ring as a sign of retirement. Naturally, many assumed his Hall of Fame induction would follow during WrestleMania 42 weekend in Las Vegas. But, for now, that plan appears to be on the back burner.
Report Details John Cena’s WWE Hall Of Fame Plans
According to WrestleVotes Radio (via Fightful Select), Cena is not expected to join the 2026 Hall of Fame class. Even though the timing feels perfect, people within WWE reportedly expect another major name to lead this year’s ceremony.
The report says Stephanie McMahon is expected to headline the 2026 Hall of Fame class. Her induction has already come to light, with The Undertaker breaking the news to her during WrestlePalooza. With her set as the main attraction, WWE is reportedly hesitant about having Cena share that spotlight in the same class.
John Cena is not expected to be a part of the WWE 2026 Hall of Fame, @WrestleVotes Radio on @FightfulSelect has learned.
— Fightful Wrestling (@Fightful) February 5, 2026
We have full details now for Select subscribers. pic.twitter.com/gXHcW2L8uX
WrestleVotes also noted that WWE plans to bring back its “Immortal Moments” category in 2026. The concept debuted in 2025 with Steve Austin vs. Bret Hart from WrestleMania 13 and is expected to return.
So while John Cena won’t be entering the Hall of Fame in 2026, it’s clearly not a question of if, just when. WWE seemingly wants to give him a future class where he can truly stand alone in the spotlight.
Read More: John Cena Details Multi-Year Road To WWE Retirement While Promoting ‘Matchbox The Movie’
