John Cena will be back on SmackDown in a few weeks (Picture: WWE)
John Cena is making his return to WWE on the final SmackDown of 2022.
The 16-time world champion is reportedly set to appear on the December 30 episode of the company’s flagship show – the same programme where he made his debut in June 2002.
As revealed by Variety, the wrestler turned Hollywood megastar will be part of the broadcaster from the Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida.
A source told the outlet that ‘more announcements are planned for the episode in the coming weeks’ as WWE looks to bring the year to an end with a bang.
It will mark the second time the so-called Doctor of Thuganomics has been seen on WWE TV this year, having previously celebrated his 20 year anniversary with an appearance on Monday Night Raw.
Although he didn’t have a match, he did come out in front of the crowd – and viewers watching at home – to discuss his time with the company.
His most recent match came at the culmination of the Summer of Cena in 2021, when he lost a WWE Universal Title bout against current champion Roman Reigns at SummerSlam.
There is no word on when the legendary star will step between the ropes again, but he has repeatedly made it clear he’s by no means done with WWE.
Austin Theory is on a roll (Picture: WWE)
Previous reports have suggested he could be on a collision course with current United States Champion Austin Theory, while Logan Paul has pitched a huge match with Cena for WrestleMania 39.
Back in April, Cena heaped praise on Theory with a word of warning in response to a video of the rising star holding his title in front of a young fan dressed in Cena’s green merchandise as he said: ‘You see that? It makes me better than John Cena!’
The legend himself replied: ‘Everyone understands that you have far more talent, strength, and gifts than I ever had. Don’t apologize for that. Ever.
‘An apology should come 20 years from now if you fail to provide the EFFORT needed to turn your potential into your legacy. I hope that day never comes.’
WWE SmackDown airs Friday nights at 1am on BT Sport 1.
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MORE : Logan Paul approaches WWE boss Triple H for big money John Cena fight at WrestleMania 39
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The champ is coming home!
