WWE has released the audio from a heated exchange between Undisputed WWE Champion John Cena and SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis, which took place backstage during last week’s broadcast. The confrontation occurred after Ron Killings attacked Cena from behind.
In the audio, shared by the company on social media, Cena admonished Aldis for a lack of protection.
I’m your champion, what are you doing to me out there? You’re making me look garbage. Anyone just walk down there, you’re pathetic. I’m a champion, damn it!
The incident is part of an ongoing storyline that will see the two competitors face each other in a singles match on the June 20 edition of WWE SmackDown in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This aggressive display from Cena is consistent with the character shift he underwent earlier in 2025, when he turned heel at the Elimination Chamber event.
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The current champion, who defeated Cody Rhodes for the title at WrestleMania 41, is in the midst of a farewell tour that is scheduled to conclude with his retirement in December 2025.
As part of his final run, Cena has a major title defense scheduled for June 28 at the Night of Champions event in Saudi Arabia. He will face CM Punk in what will be their first one-on-one match since 2013.
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