John Cena Faces Cody Rhodes on Dramatic WWE Raw in Brussels

BRUSSELS, Belgium — WWE Raw showcased intense rivalries and high-stakes matches on March 17, 2025, at the ING Arena, starting an hour earlier than usual at 3 PM ET. A significant moment unfolded when John Cena made his long-awaited return to confront Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes, following Cena’s shocking alliance with The Rock at WWE Elimination Chamber earlier this month.

Since betraying Rhodes to secure a title shot at WrestleMania 41, Cena had remained silent, stirring tension leading up to their inevitable showdown. Rhodes, eager for retribution, used the past few weeks to publicly challenge Cena, culminating in their face-off.

“I’ve been the victim for 25 years, and the audience has bullied me the whole time,” Cena declared, addressing the live crowd who responded with loud boos. “You expect me to be your puppet, but I’m no longer your babyface or heel. I’m just a human being.” This emotional address highlighted Cena’s frustrations with the fanbase, asserting that he has consistently worked hard for their approval, yet felt it was never enough.

Rhodes entered shortly after to respond, reminding Cena that the same fans who have let him down also celebrated his achievements. He challenged Cena to rediscover himself by WrestleMania 41, warning of dire consequences if he doesn’t.

Meanwhile, Bianca Belair, who won the Women’s Elimination Chamber match, faced distractions stemming from her feud with her former friend Naomi. Despite these issues, she signed a contract challenge against current Women’s World Champion IYO SKY for WrestleMania 41, solidifying their match.

“I respect you, but you’ll see who I am at WrestleMania,” Belair told SKY before signing the agreement. Things escalated when Rhea Ripley interrupted the proceedings, forcefully making a case for her own inclusion in the championship narrative, leading to a chaotic confrontation involving all three women.

In other matches, Bron Breakker defended his Intercontinental Championship against Finn Balor, successfully stealing the spotlight. After an intense bout filled with counterattacks and near falls, Breakker finished Balor with a spear to retain his title.

“I’m still the champion, and no one takes this belt from me,” Breakker stated after the match amid chaos when other wrestlers attempted to ambush him.

Additionally, Penta and Ludwig Kaiser clashed in a No Holds Barred Match, showcasing brutal tactics and high-risk moves. Ultimately, Penta emerged victorious, further cementing his status as a top contender.

Jey Uso continued to build his momentum heading into WrestleMania, securing a quick victory over Austin Theory. After the match, tensions flared as GUNTHER sought revenge, only for Uso to stand his ground.

As WWE Raw concluded, the atmosphere was electric, gearing up for a spectacular WrestleMania 41 set to unfold on April 19-20 in Las Vegas.