John Cena appeared on the November 2 episode of WWE Raw to announce the inaugural John Cena Classic scheduled for December 2026. After naming Cody Rhodes as the first participant, Cena is set to appear on a special Wednesday edition of NXT to potentially scout the next competitor from the brand.
According to reports, eight NXT performers are under consideration for the event. Izzi Dame, a longtime fixture in the women's division, recently defeated NXT Women's North American Champion Zaria at Halloween Havoc. Charlie Dempsey carries the lineage of WWE Hall of Famer William Regal and has earned accolades in NXT. Kendal Grey has rapidly risen, capturing the NXT Women's Championship within a year of her debut. Myles Borne, a former NXT North American Champion, impressed in a weapons match against Tavion Heights at Halloween Havoc. Zaria, the reigning NXT Women's North American Champion, is known for her dominant in-ring style and rivalry with Sol Ruca. Zilla Fatu, son of WWE legend Umaga, has made an immediate impact since his debut. Kelani Jordan, the current NXT Women's Champion, has thrived since turning heel. Grayson Waller, the reigning NXT Champion, gained attention with a memorable promo and could be the first NXT participant announced by Cena.
