CM Punk to steal WWE title; Seth Rollins' cash-in attempt? 3 outcomes for when John Cena finally faces R-Truth again

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The 2025 Money in the Bank fallout edition of WWE SmackDown saw several major developments, including the former R-Truth’s saga evolving. Ron Killings attacked Cena twice on the blue brand this week.

The first time was soon after the show kicked off, and as the Last Real Champion was leaving the ring after a heated argument with Randy Orton, LA Knight, and Cody Rhodes. The second took place when Cena called out Killings for a fight, but CM Punk instead came out and cooked him in a promo. Using the distraction, Ron attacked John from behind and security personnel had to intervene to stop the 53-year-old legend.

Following Ron Killings’ attack, Nick Aldis confronted him backstage. He asked him what he wanted, and the WWE legend said he wanted a rematch against the Last Real Champion next week on SmackDown. The General Manager agreed and officially announced the match.

In this listicle, we look at three outcomes for the John Cena vs. Ron Killings match next week on Friday Night SmackDown:


#3. CM Punk might recreate his iconic 2011 WWE moment

John Cena vs. CM Punk is widely regarded as one of the best rivalries in the PG Era. Both men were part of several memorable moments back in 2011, one of which was The Best in the World, running away with the WWE Title, blowing a kiss at then-Chairman Vince McMahon from the crowd.

Now that their match for Night of Champions has beem announced, both men have been taking shots at each other, mentioning their history.

To hype the WWE match-up, Punk might create havoc in Ron Killings vs. John Cena’s rematch on the blue brand and could steal Cena’s Undisputed WWE Title and run away among the crowd, blowing a kiss at the Last Real Champion, distracting him. Taking advantage of events, Killings could seal a win for himself in a non-title bout against The Franchise Player.

#2. Seth Rollins' attempts cash-in on John Cena

Seth Rollins is the current holder of the Money in the Bank contract and has set his eye on John Cena’s gold strap. Rollins is best known for his unexpected cash-in the last time he held the contract. The Visionary might pull the trigger when no one expects it to happen.

Since returning, Ron Killings has been on fire and is on a mission to restore the respect he deserves as a veteran. The 53-year-old legend would definitely bring out the most vicious version of himself in a non-title rematch against Cena.

After a tough fight, regardless of the result, Seth Rollins might run in to capitalize and capture the championship. However, Punk could intervene and help Cena, vowing that he wants to be the one who beats the Last Real Champion, creating a perfect Triple Threat scenario at Night of Champions 2025.

#1. Cody Rhodes returns the favor

Ron Killings made his shocking comeback to the Stamford-based promotion during Cena's tag team match against Cody Rhodes and Jey Uso alongside Logan Paul as his partner. The veteran attacked Cena mid-match when he was seemingly on his way to winning, using a page out of Cena's book with a similar cheap shot.

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The American Nightmare capitalized on the moment and picked up a win over John Cena. Cody Rhodes could return Ron Killings' favor by helping him beat Cena. Rhodes could neutralize Cena’s cheap tactics and snatch his title when he tries to use it to hit Killings.

Capitalizing on the moment, Truth might pick up a monumental win over John Cena, pinning him clean ahead of his title match against CM Punk at WWE Night of Champions 2025.