WWE Hall of Famer Nikki Bella drew unexpected parallels between seven-time Women’s Champion Bayley and her ex-fiancé John Cena during a recent episode of The Nikki and Brie Show, highlighting similarities that extend beyond their impressive championship reigns.
Table of Contents
WWE Interview Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Show | The Nikki and Brie Show |
| Episode Date | November 25, 2025 |
| Guest | Bayley (7-time Women’s Champion) |
| Comparison Subject | John Cena |
| Key Quality | Presence and influence on roster |
| Context | Bayley’s absence from TV tapings |
The Comparison That Caught Everyone’s Attention
During her podcast interview with Bayley, Nikki made an observation that resonated with longtime WWE fans. She noted the Role Model possesses a commanding presence similar to the Cenation Leader—when either superstar is absent from television, people immediately notice and ask questions.
Nikki mentioned that Bayley had a strong presence like John Cena and was a huge positive influence on the stars, adding that whenever Bayley wasn’t seen during TV tapings, people would question her whereabouts.
The comparison speaks to both wrestlers’ impact on WWE programming. Just as Cena anchored shows for over a decade as the company’s top star, Bayley has become an essential fixture of the women’s division whose absence creates a noticeable void.
Why This Matters Beyond the Ring
This isn’t simply about championship counts or match quality—it’s about cultural impact. Both Cena and Bayley represent consistency, reliability, and mentorship within WWE’s locker room. Their presence elevates everyone around them, making younger talent better through their work ethic and professionalism.
Bayley’s influence on the women’s division mirrors Cena’s role with male talent throughout the 2010s. Both serve as measuring sticks for excellence, veterans who consistently deliver regardless of storyline positioning.
Nikki and John’s Complex History
The comparison carries additional weight given Nikki and John’s storied relationship. The two stars dated back in the day and were a major power couple in WWE, featured on Total Divas, with John Cena proposing to Nikki at WrestleMania 33 before they later broke up due to personal differences.
Their breakup in 2018, just weeks before their scheduled wedding, became one of wrestling’s most discussed relationship endings. One of the main differences between the couple was their opinions on whether to have children, with John Cena completely against being a father.
Despite the painful split, Nikki’s ability to reference John positively when praising another wrestler demonstrates professional maturity and respect for his contributions to the business.
Bayley’s Current Status in WWE
The timing of this comparison is particularly relevant given Bayley’s recent storylines. The former Role Model has reinvented herself multiple times, transitioning from hugger to villain and back to fan favorite while maintaining main event status throughout.
Her seven championship reigns across different eras showcase adaptability similar to Cena’s ability to remain relevant through changing WWE landscapes. Both wrestlers understand how to connect with audiences regardless of whether they’re heroes or villains.
John Cena’s Farewell Tour
The Cenation Leader will make his second last appearance at Survivor Series this year, facing Dominik Mysterio in a singles match for the Intercontinental Championship, marking one of his final appearances before retirement.
Cena’s farewell tour throughout 2025 has reminded fans why comparisons to him remain the ultimate compliment—few wrestlers in history have matched his combination of in-ring consistency, promotional ability, and backstage leadership.
How to Watch WWE Programming
Catch Bayley and other WWE superstars on Monday Night Raw (Netflix starting 2025), SmackDown (USA Network), and premium live events on WWE’s Peacock streaming service. For international viewers, visit WWE Network for availability in your region.
John Cena’s remaining matches air on WWE programming through December, with his final match scheduled for December 13, 2025, at Saturday Night’s Main Event.
Subscribe to WWE’s official YouTube channel for highlights, interviews, and behind-the-scenes content featuring your favorite superstars.
For more WWE coverage and wrestling news, check our WWE section and explore broader sports entertainment updates in our sports news hub.
What This Means for Women’s Wrestling
Nikki’s comparison elevates Bayley to legendary status within WWE’s hierarchy. Being mentioned alongside John Cena—arguably the most recognizable wrestler of the 21st century—validates Bayley’s decade-long contribution to revolutionizing women’s wrestling.
The Four Horsewomen generation (Bayley, Sasha Banks, Charlotte Flair, and Becky Lynch) transformed WWE’s women’s division from an afterthought to main event caliber. Bayley’s consistency throughout this evolution makes Nikki’s comparison particularly apt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are Nikki Bella and John Cena still on good terms?
While they maintain professional respect, their contact appears minimal. Nikki revealed they briefly reunited at the 2025 Royal Rumble—their first encounter in seven or eight years. She emphasized being respectful since John is now married to Shay Shariatzadeh. Both have moved forward with separate lives and careers.
Q: Has Bayley responded to being compared to John Cena?
While Bayley hasn’t publicly responded to Nikki’s specific comparison yet, she’s previously acknowledged Cena’s influence on her career. The Role Model has often cited Cena’s longevity and adaptability as qualities she admires and tries to emulate in her own journey through WWE’s women’s division.
