United States Champion Austin Theory def. John Cena

Published Apr. 1, 2023 8:44 p.m. ET

The past met the future as John Cena challenged Austin Theory for Cena’s signature title, the United States Championship. It was the youngster who defeated his childhood idol to kick off WrestleMania 39. Cena toyed with Theory to start, but it only enraged the champion who responded by biting the 16-time World Champion’s ear. After an impressive few minutes from Theory, Cena locked in an STF submission, but Theory again used his teeth to break the hold.  Theory countered the AA and nailed a DDT, later locking in a sleeper hold, but Cena fought out. After a few shoulder tackles, Cena hit his signature Five Knuckle Shuffle, but an ensuing scuffle knocked down the WWE Official. With the ref down, Cena locked in the STF and forced Theory to tap out, but without an official, it didn’t matter. Cena tried waking the referee, but Theory hit Cena below the belt and nailed A-Town Down, retaining his title and securing the biggest win of his career at WrestleMania 39.

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