Former WWE Stars To Enter The John Cena Classic

WWE

At WWE Backlash 2026, John Cena made an appearance to announce a new event and championship called the John Cena Classic.

On that night, WWE and NXT stars will compete in a series of matches looking to impress the audience and receive votes from the fans to be crowned the John Cena Classic Champion.

This could open the door for former WWE talent to make their return to enter this historic night in the company.

Here are six former WWE stars to potentially enter the John Cena Classic.

6. Carmella

Carmella has not competed in the squared circle since March of 2023 after announcing her pregnancy with her first child.

The former WWE SmackDown Women’s Champion was one of the most charismatic and entertaining characters in the women’s division during her time in the company.

After 12 years with the promotion, Mella saw her contract expire and has been a free agent ever since.

Recently, Carmella has teased her in-ring return on social media, which could see her making a comeback in WWE to compete in the John Cena Classic.

5. Bishop Dyer (Baron Corbin)

Someone who is no stranger to John Cena from his time in WWE is Baron Corbin.

Since leaving WWE in November 2024, Corbin has reinvented himself into Bishop Dyer, proving himself outside of the company.

In multiple promotions like MLW and MLP, Dyer has become a champion and established himself as a reliable in-ring performer like he was for much of his time in WWE.

Making a return to compete at this historic event, Dyer becoming Baron Corbin again for one night would be a great way to give the former Mr. Money In The Bank one final farewell from the company.

4. Mustafa Ali

After being released by WWE in 2023, Mustafa Ali hit the ground running and became one of the most sought after free agents on the independent scene.

Then in 2024, Ali signed with TNA Wrestling and has firmly established himself as one of the top stars in the promotion today.

Having won both the TNA X-Division and International Championships, it is clear that Ali has not lost a step and is still among one of the most dependable in-ring performers in all of pro wrestling.

Returning for the John Cena Classic, Ali could once again show the WWE fans that he is a standout that can connect with the audience unlike many currently signed by the company.

3. Nic Nemeth (Dolph Ziggler)

Back in November 2025, Nic Nemeth returned to WWE as Dolph Ziggler to compete in “The Last Time Is Now” Tournament.

Wanting to honor John Cena and compete to face him in his final match, Ziggler made his presence felt and put on an impressive showing against Solo Sikoa in the tournament.

The former World Heavyweight Champion has made his home with TNA Wrestling where he is among the biggest stars on the roster today.

Considering everything he has accomplished in WWE and TNA, Ziggler could once again make an impact by returning for the John Cena Classic and facing off with one of the rising talents from the NXT brand.

2. Carlito

In June 2025, Carlito departed WWE after his contract with the company expired, ending his second stint after two years.

During his first run with the promotion, Carlito truly made a name for himself in his rivalry with John Cena.

Winning his first singles title in the United States Championship from Cena, Carlito showed the world that he had what it takes to stand toe-to-toe with anyone.

Making his return to the company, Carlito could give a young star on the rise from NXT the same opportunity that “The Never Seen 17” did for him in the John Cena Classic.

1. Jeff Hardy

Someone else who has made his return to the company over the past year is Jeff Hardy.

Currently signed to TNA Wrestling, Jeff has reunited with his brother Matt Hardy to become two of the biggest stars in the entire promotion.

Thanks to his popularity and legacy in the business, Hardy would make for a wonderful addition for the John Cena Classic.

Whether it be against the likes of Tony D’Angelo, Mason Rook or Myles Borne, Jeff Hardy could be a perfect opponent for a NXT star at the John Cena Classic.

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• wwe
• John Cena
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