John Cena's long-awaited WWE return will take place in Tampa

The legend will take on champion Roman Reigns at Amalie Arena on Dec. 30

click to enlarge John Cena - Photo via WWE
Photo via WWE
John Cena
Cena Claus is coming to town.

The iconic John Cena will make his WWE return to take on undisputed champion Roman Reigns during Friday Night Smackdown at Amalie Arena on Dec. 30. Doors open at 7:30 p.m and tickets start at $56 on Ticketmaster.

Cena announced he will team up with former foe Kevin Owens to take on Reigns and Sami Zayn in a tag team match to finale Smackdown's last event of 2022.
The household name hasn't fought in over a year. Cena's last match was against none other than Reigns, who dealt him a crushing loss to in the main event of SummerSlam 2021. Reigns has ruled as the WWE's Universal Champion for 843 days and counting.

Cena, who owns a home in Land O' Lakes,  has spent more time focusing on his career outside the ring, adding to his big screen resume as Peacemaker in DC's "The Suicide Squad" blockbuster and spin off series "Peacemaker."

Cena appeared on Monday Night Raw earlier this year in June, but only to celebrate his 20th anniversary with the WWE. Many expected the 45-year-old to hang up the jorts for good. But despite his memed motto "U Can't See Me," your eyes will be able to grace the legend next week.

Former UFC champion Ronda Rousey, the Usos and Bray Wyatt are also on the bill, according to Amalie Arena. Talent is subject to change.

WE LOVE OUR READERS!

Since 1988, CL Tampa Bay has served as the free, independent voice of Tampa Bay, and we want to keep it that way.

Becoming a CL Tampa Bay Supporter for as little as $5 a month allows us to continue offering readers access to our coverage of local news, food, nightlife, events, and culture with no paywalls.

Join today because you love us, too.

Scroll to read more Sports & Recreation articles

Join Creative Loafing Tampa Bay Newsletters

Subscribe now to get the latest news delivered right to your inbox.