The rivalry between **John Cena and Edge** is one of the most **legendary feuds** in WWE history. From shocking betrayals to unforgettable title matches, these two **icons of wrestling** have delivered some of the most thrilling moments in WWE.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into **their heated rivalry, the buildup to this WWE Championship match, the action inside the ring, and the aftermath that followed**.
## 📜 The Rivalry That Changed WWE
### 🔹 Edge: The Ultimate Opportunist
By the mid-2000s, **Edge had transformed from a beloved tag team star into one of WWE’s most cunning villains**. His ability to seize every opportunity—whether through **Money in the Bank cash-ins or dirty tactics**—earned him the nickname **”The Ultimate Opportunist.”**
Edge’s rise to the **WWE Championship scene** came at the expense of **John Cena**, and from that moment, their rivalry became personal.
### 🔹 John Cena: The Face of WWE
John Cena was already **WWE’s top star**, embodying **loyalty, respect, and never giving up**. He had won multiple championships and built a **strong connection with the fans**. However, Edge proved to be **one of his toughest rivals ever**—someone who could outsmart him, outfight him, and even steal his championship.
Their feud wasn’t just about titles; it was about **legacy, pride, and proving who truly belonged at the top of WWE**.
## ⚔️ The Build-Up – The Road to an Epic Showdown
Edge had already humiliated Cena multiple times, including:
🔥 **Cashing in Money in the Bank at New Year’s Revolution 2006** to steal the WWE Championship from a battered Cena.
🔥 **Defeating Cena in controversial fashion** to retain the title.
🔥 **Publicly mocking Cena’s “Hustle, Loyalty, Respect” mantra** and even throwing the WWE Championship into Long Island Sound
Cena had enough. He was determined to **shut Edge up once and for all** and reclaim what was rightfully his—the **WWE Championship**.
This led to their highly anticipated match: **John Cena vs. Edge for the WWE Championship**
## 🏆 The Match – A Battle for the Ages
From the moment the **bell rang**, the intensity was **off the charts**.
### 🔥 A Clash of Styles
– **Edge relied on his cunning tactics**, trying to **frustrate and outsmart Cena**.
– **Cena used his strength and resilience**, delivering powerful moves that shook the ring.
– The crowd was **electric**, split between **Cena’s die-hard supporters** and **Edge’s passionate fans**.
### ⚡ High-Stakes Action
🚨 **Edge attempted the Spear early, but Cena dodged**
🚨 **Cena countered with a Five Knuckle Shuffle, but Edge reversed**
🚨 **Both superstars fought outside the ring, using steel steps and the barricade to inflict damage**
Every near-fall had fans **on the edge of their seats**, as neither man was willing to give up.
### 💀 Edge’s Dirty Tactics
Knowing he was in trouble, **Edge resorted to his classic dirty tricks**.
🔹 He tried to **use the ropes for leverage on pin attempts**.
🔹 He distracted the referee, allowing **Lita** to interfere and hand him a steel chair.
🔹 He **low-blowed Cena when the ref wasn’t looking**, nearly stealing the victory.
But Cena, fueled by **pure determination**, refused to stay down.
## 💥 The Final Moments – Cena’s Ultimate Comeback
In the closing moments of the match, **both superstars were exhausted**, but neither was willing to surrender.
🔥 **Edge lined up for one final Spear… but Cena countered into the STFU submission**
🔥 **Edge struggled, reaching for the ropes, but Cena dragged him back to the center of the ring**
🔥 **With no escape, Edge had no choice… HE TAPPED OUT**
✅ **JOHN CENA WINS**
✅ **NEW WWE CHAMPION**
The crowd **erupted in cheers** as Cena **stood tall with the championship in hand**, proving that **he was still the face of WWE**.
## 🌟 The Aftermath – A Rivalry That Defined an Era
### 🔹 Edge’s Legacy Grows
Despite the loss, this match **solidified Edge as a top main-event star**. His rivalry with Cena only made him **more dangerous, more strategic, and more determined to reclaim the title**.
In the months that followed, Edge continued to:
– **Dominate the WWE Championship scene**
– **Win more world titles**
– **Use even more ruthless tactics to stay on top**
### 🔹 Cena’s Championship Reign Continues
John Cena’s victory **further cemented his status as WWE’s top superstar**. He went on to:
🏆 **Defend the WWE Championship against countless challengers**
🏆 **Headline major events like WrestleMania**
🏆 **Continue being the company’s ultimate role model**
But one thing remained clear—**Edge would always be his greatest rival**.
## 🎯 Why This Match Still Matters Today
Even years later, the **John Cena vs. Edge rivalry** remains:
✅ **One of the most iconic feuds in WWE history.**
✅ **A perfect blend of storytelling, drama, and in-ring excellence.**
✅ **A rivalry that helped define an entire era of WWE.**
Their battles were about more than just championships—they were about **proving who truly ruled WWE**.
## 📢 Final Thoughts
🔥 **John Cena vs. Edge was more than just a WWE Championship match—it was a WAR between two of the greatest superstars of all time.**
💀 **Edge played the ultimate villain.**
⚡ **Cena fought with heart and determination.**
🏆 **The WWE Championship was the ultimate prize.**
Even today, fans **still debate** who the greatest was—Cena or Edge?