The world of professional wrestling has always been a stage for epic rivalries, jaw-dropping moments, and unforgettable showdowns. Among these, the clash between John Cena and AJ Styles stands out as one of the most electrifying battles in WWE history. Fans have long debated whether John Cena, the face of WWE for over a decade, can overpower the phenomenal AJ Styles or if he’ll crumble under the weight of a truly formidable challenger. This historic rivalry has captivated audiences worldwide, blending athleticism, charisma, and storytelling into a spectacle that transcends the squared circle. Let’s dive into this legendary feud, exploring their backgrounds, key matches, and what makes this matchup a defining moment in wrestling lore.
#### John Cena: The Unstoppable Icon of WWE
John Cena is a name synonymous with WWE success. With 16 world championship reigns, Cena has solidified his status as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time. Known for his “Never Give Up” mantra, Cena’s journey from a rookie rapper persona to a global superstar is nothing short of inspirational. His larger-than-life presence, combined with his in-ring resilience, has made him a fan favorite and a nightmare for opponents. Whether it’s his signature Attitude Adjustment or his relentless work ethic, Cena embodies the spirit of a champion who refuses to back down.
However, Cena’s dominance hasn’t come without challenges. As he transitioned into a part-time wrestler due to his Hollywood career, questions arose about whether he could still hang with the new generation of talent. Enter AJ Styles—a wrestler whose skill set and reputation posed a unique threat to Cena’s legacy. Could Cena, with all his experience, destroy this phenomenal challenger, or would he finally meet his match?
#### AJ Styles: The Phenomenal Challenger
If John Cena is the face of WWE’s golden era, AJ Styles is the embodiment of wrestling’s evolution. Known as “The Phenomenal One,” Styles brought a level of technical mastery and high-flying agility that redefined what it meant to be a WWE superstar. Before joining WWE in 2016, Styles had already conquered the independent circuit and promotions like TNA and New Japan Pro Wrestling, earning a reputation as one of the best wrestlers on the planet. His arrival in WWE was met with thunderous applause, and it didn’t take long for him to prove he belonged at the top.
Styles’ arsenal includes the breathtaking Phenomenal Forearm, the devastating Styles Clash, and a submission game that leaves opponents tapping out. Unlike Cena, who relies on power and charisma, Styles blends precision, speed, and unpredictability. This contrast set the stage for a rivalry that wasn’t just about brute strength but about two contrasting philosophies clashing in the ring. Could AJ Styles, the underdog with a chip on his shoulder, topple the mighty John Cena, or would he fall short against the veteran’s experience?
#### The Genesis of a Legendary Feud
The rivalry between John Cena and AJ Styles officially ignited in 2016, a time when Cena was returning from injury and Styles was establishing himself as a main-event player. Their first major encounter came at Money in the Bank 2016, a match that would set the tone for their historic clashes. Styles, backed by The Club (Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson), faced off against Cena in a dream match that had fans buzzing with anticipation. What followed was a masterclass in storytelling and athleticism, with Styles emerging victorious thanks to interference from his allies.
This loss was a rare blemish on Cena’s record, but it was far from the end. The defeat lit a fire under Cena, who vowed to prove he could beat Styles one-on-one, without any outside help. Meanwhile, Styles relished the opportunity to cement his legacy by taking down WWE’s golden boy. Their rivalry wasn’t just about wins and losses—it was about pride, legacy, and the clash of two titans from different eras of wrestling. Fans couldn’t get enough, and the stage was set for even bigger battles.
#### SummerSlam 2016: A Defining Moment
If Money in the Bank was the spark, SummerSlam 2016 was the explosion. Billed as a rematch between Cena and Styles, this encounter promised no interference—just two warriors battling it out to determine who was truly superior. The match delivered in every way imaginable. For over 23 minutes, Cena and Styles pushed each other to their limits, trading near-falls, signature moves, and moments of sheer brilliance. Styles’ agility countered Cena’s power, while Cena’s resilience tested Styles’ endurance.
In the end, AJ Styles hit a second Phenomenal Forearm to pin Cena clean in the center of the ring—an outcome that shocked the WWE Universe. This victory wasn’t just a win for Styles; it was a statement. He had defeated John Cena without any shortcuts, proving that he could hang with—and beat—the best. For Cena, the loss was a humbling moment, but it also showcased his willingness to elevate new talent. SummerSlam 2016 remains one of the greatest matches in WWE history, a testament to the chemistry between these two icons.
#### Royal Rumble 2017: Cena Strikes Back
The feud reached its pinnacle at Royal Rumble 2017, where John Cena and AJ Styles faced off for the WWE Championship. By this point, Styles had become the champion, holding the title with an air of confidence that only added fuel to Cena’s fire. Cena, determined to reclaim his throne and tie Ric Flair’s record of 16 world titles, brought everything he had to the table. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both men kicking out of finishing moves and delivering a performance that left fans on the edge of their seats.
In a dramatic finish, Cena countered Styles’ offense with an Attitude Adjustment, followed by a second one off the top rope, to secure the victory and the championship. This win marked a triumphant return for Cena, proving that even against a phenomenal challenger like Styles, he could still rise to the occasion. For Styles, the loss was a setback, but it didn’t diminish his status as a top-tier competitor. The Royal Rumble 2017 match is often cited as the crown jewel of their rivalry, blending drama, athleticism, and stakes into a near-perfect wrestling contest.
#### What Makes This Rivalry Historic?
The John Cena vs. AJ Styles feud isn’t just about individual matches—it’s about what it represents. For Cena, it was a chance to prove he could still compete with the best of the new generation. For Styles, it was an opportunity to show that his years of grinding outside WWE had prepared him to take down a legend. Their contrasting styles—Cena’s power and perseverance versus Styles’ speed and technical prowess—created a dynamic that kept fans guessing. Every encounter felt like a war, with neither man willing to give an inch.
Beyond the in-ring action, their rivalry had a lasting impact on WWE. It bridged the gap between the old guard and the new era, showcasing how veterans and newcomers could coexist and create magic together. Cena’s willingness to put Styles over at SummerSlam elevated the latter’s career, while Styles’ victories gave Cena’s eventual comeback an even greater payoff. It’s a rivalry that defined an era and set a benchmark for what a wrestling feud could be.
#### Can Cena Destroy Styles, Or Will He Fall?
So, can John Cena destroy AJ Styles, or will he fall to this formidable challenger? The answer depends on how you define victory. In terms of their head-to-head record, both men have had their moments of glory. Cena’s championship win at Royal Rumble 2017 gave him the upper hand in their most high-stakes encounter, but Styles’ clean victory at SummerSlam 2016 arguably carries more weight in the eyes of purists. Each wrestler brought out the best in the other, making it impossible to declare a definitive “winner.”
If they were to clash again today, the outcome would hinge on several factors. Cena, now 47 and focused on acting, might not have the same physical edge he once did. Styles, still active in WWE as of 2025, remains a force to be reckoned with, though he too is in the later stages of his career. A hypothetical rematch would likely come down to heart, strategy, and the ability to adapt—qualities both men have in spades.
#### The Legacy of Cena vs. Styles
As we reflect on this historic clash, one thing is clear: John Cena vs. AJ Styles is more than just a rivalry—it’s a celebration of professional wrestling at its finest. Their matches showcased the artistry, athleticism, and passion that define the sport, leaving an indelible mark on WWE history. Whether Cena destroyed Styles or fell to him is almost irrelevant; what matters is the legacy they built together. Fans will forever remember this feud as a time when two legends collided, creating moments that will be talked about for generations.
In conclusion, the question of whether John Cena can destroy AJ Styles or fall to this phenomenal challenger doesn’t have a simple answer. Their rivalry was a dance of equals, a historic clash that elevated both men and the industry they love. As wrestling continues to evolve, Cena and Styles will remain icons of an unforgettable era, forever linked by the battles that defined their greatness.