John Cena’s WWE Future and Royal Rumble Rumors Heat Up

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — John Cena‘s absence from WWE programming ahead of Saturday’s Royal Rumble has sparked speculation about his future in the ring. According to PWInsider.com, Cena has been in Budapest, Hungary, filming for the movie “Matchbox,” based on the popular Matchbox car toy line. Despite his acting commitments, Cena is expected to return for the Royal Rumble in Indianapolis, where he could make history by tying “Stone Cold” Steve Austin’s record of three Royal Rumble wins.

Cena, who announced that 2025 would be his final year as an active wrestler, is also being advertised for Elimination Chamber and WrestleMania 41. Fans are eagerly anticipating his potential record-breaking 17th world championship run. “Every indication is that he will be seen more regularly on WWE programming in 2025,” a source close to the situation said.

Meanwhile, WWE may be positioning Jordynne Grace for a surprise appearance in the women’s Royal Rumble. Fightful reported that Grace, 28, officially signed with WWE just eight days after her final TNA match at Genesis. PWInsider.com added that Grace arrived at the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida, and is believed to have signed a multi-year contract. Grace, who made a memorable debut in the 2024 women’s Royal Rumble, is considered a dark-horse contender to win this year’s match.

Injury updates have also surfaced ahead of the Royal Rumble. AJ Styles, recovering from a Lisfranc foot injury, is hopeful to be cleared in time for the men’s Royal Rumble. Asuka, who has been out of action since May, may return for the women’s match, though her status remains uncertain. Dakota Kai, who reportedly suffered a concussion on the Jan. 20 episode of Raw, is unlikely to compete.

As the Royal Rumble approaches, fans are left to speculate on the potential surprises and outcomes. With Cena’s possible record-breaking moment and Grace’s anticipated debut, this year’s event promises to be one for the history books.