The opening segment of the June 13 edition of WWE SmackDown concluded in chaos as John Cena, after being confronted by a trio of title contenders, was ambushed by his rival, Ron Killings. The incident occurred after Cena attempted to exit the ring, only to be attacked from behind by Killings. Security personnel were required to separate the two individuals. The physical altercation adds another chapter to their escalating feud, with a formal rematch now scheduled for the June 20 broadcast of SmackDown.
Prior to the brawl, Cena addressed the audience in Lexington, beginning his promo by listing himself as every figure on a theoretical pro wrestling Mount Rushmore. He asserted that no performer in history was comparable to him. Cena detailed what he described as a master plan, claiming his early retirement announcement six months ago was a strategic move to scout his opposition. He also revealed an alliance with Logan Paul for a match at Money in the Bank, framing it as a tactic to bide time before a future championship match against CM Punk. Cena then issued a direct challenge, stating that for Punk to receive a title opportunity, he must first admit to being a hypocrite.
Cena’s speech was interrupted by the arrival of Cody Rhodes. Rhodes acknowledged Cena’s strategic mind but pointed to a flaw in his plan.
“The simple fact that this past Saturday you were looking at the lights when I pinned you in the center of this ring,” Rhodes stated.
Following Rhodes’ remarks, Randy Orton also made his way to the ring, making his intentions clear that he would go through anyone necessary to secure a 15th World Title reign. LA Knight was the final superstar to interrupt the segment. He positioned himself as an outsider against what he termed the “WWE establishment” in the ring.
“A sore thumb,” Knight said, describing himself.
Knight then vowed to defeat everyone in the ring if required to become World Champion. It was after this series of confrontations that Cena attempted to leave, leading to the attack by Killings. The rivalry between Cena and Killings has intensified since Money in the Bank on June 7, where Killings, in his return, cost Cena a match. This followed a storyline where Killings had been seemingly released from the company, a development that has since been praised as a well-executed narrative turn.
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