Randy Orton took to Instagram today to pay tribute to his longtime rival and friend, John Cena, following Cena’s retirement match this past Saturday at Saturday Night’s Main Event.
Orton, who was notably absent from the event in Washington, D.C., addressed his inability to attend Cena’s final bout. In his post, Orton explained that he was in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, fulfilling promotional obligations for “Riyadh Season” and the upcoming Royal Rumble event.
“I broke into the wrestling business and grew up for the past 2 decades alongside [John Cena],” Orton wrote. “I wrestled with or against him 100 times, at least. I would have enjoyed being there in DC for #wwe #snme and witness his emotional send off into retirement. But I know if ANYONE understands my absence, it’s John, because I was in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia #KSA promoting #riyadhseason and #royalrumble.”
Orton revealed that he and Cena had been in contact on the day of the event.
“The morning of his retirement we exchanged a few texts, and I was honored to speak with him on such a big day,” Orton stated.
Orton also commented on Cena’s future outside of the ring, predicting continued success for the actor.
“I look forward to following John’s career in Hollywood AND beyond. Skys the limit with this guy. An inspiration not only to generations of fans, but to myself, who was lucky enough to learn firsthand from one of the most OVER wrestlers ever.”
Orton concluded his message by thanking Cena for his impact behind the scenes.
“Thanks for being so good to my family over the years and thanks for making the lockerroom a better place. Take care John, and I’ll see ya around.”
A Storied Rivalry
Orton and Cena have a history that dates back to the early 2000s when both were developmental talents in Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW). They were part of the celebrated “OVW Class of 2002,” which also included Brock Lesnar and Dave Bautista.
On the main roster, their careers ran parallel as two of the defining stars of their generation. They engaged in numerous high-profile feuds over the WWE Championship and World Heavyweight Championship, main-eventing multiple pay-per-views. Their rivalry culminated in a historic Tables, Ladders, and Chairs match in December 2013, where Orton defeated Cena to unify the World Heavyweight and WWE Championships.
Cena wrestled his final match this past Saturday, losing to World Heavyweight Champion Gunther via submission.
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