John Cena’s untouchable WWE record could be broken —But only the WrestleMania 42 main eventer has a real chance!

John Cena’s legacy will be remembered as one of the greatest WWE superstars of all time. He led a generation for the Stamford-based promotion and became one of their biggest stars in history. However, there is one prime reason Cena earned the GOAT moniker, which he was widely known for, by winning a record 17 World Championships in the company. Cena etched the record by defeating Cody Rhodes in the main event of WrestleMania 41.

WWE legend actually stands a chance to break John Cena's record

While there are many veterans and rising stars on the current roster, only one active wrestler has a real chance of surpassing that record: Randy Orton. The Viper has won a total of 14 World Championships in his WWE career. Moreover, when he came back to the company in 2023 after a lengthy hiatus, he mentioned that he still had ten more years as an in-ring performer.

Image via WWE.com

With the current timeline he has set and the World titles etched to his name, Randy Orton can arguably be seen as the only candidate right now to break John Cena’s record. He could have come close when he faced Cena for the title at the 2025 WWE Backlash PLE, but he was unsuccessful. At the same time, Orton, being the only realistic choice, can change in the coming years, considering the rise of many names on the current WWE roster.

Randy Orton can come close to John Cena’s record at WrestleMania 42

Randy Orton has a major opportunity coming up to win his 15th WWE World Championship. He outlasted five top stars in the 2026 Men’s Elimination Chamber match to earn a chance to compete for the Undisputed WWE title in the main event of WrestleMania 42.

Orton’s opponent will be his former protégé, Cody Rhodes. The American Nightmare defeated Drew McIntyre to regain the title on the SmackDown after the WWE Elimination Chamber PLE. However, in a shocking turn of events, Orton turned heel and viciously attacked Rhodes after their contract signing on the following episode of SmackDown. The Viper is set to make an appearance on SmackDown this week to explain his actions.



Furthermore, WWE has announced that Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton will compete for the Undisputed WWE title in the main event of WrestleMania 42 Night 1. With so much history and Orton channelling his inner demon on the road to WrestleMania, it is expected to be a stellar showdown.

Also read: Former WWE star's wife facing death threats after his controversial remarks on social media

Celebrating India's sporting legends at the Times of India Sports Awards - Book Passes Now!