WWE RAW at Madison Square Garden: Anticipation Soars for Cena’s Final Match

WWE’s episode of RAW at the iconic Madison Square Garden is set to be a landmark event, featuring what is billed as John Cena‘s final match on the show. Scheduled for December 13, 2023, this episode promises significant developments with a tournament bracket and several high-profile names expected backstage, creating an electric atmosphere for fans.

Reports indicate that prominent figures such as AJ Lee, Liv Morgan, and Roman Reigns will be present at the venue. AJ Lee’s anticipated return has long been speculated, particularly as she is rumored to be the final member of the Women’s War Games match. Her presence at Madison Square Garden is likely to stir excitement among fans eager for her comeback.

Liv Morgan has been absent from WWE programming since suffering an arm injury in a match against Kairi Sane earlier this year. Her appearance backstage could signify progress towards her return, which is projected for early 2026. As for Roman Reigns, he has not been seen on television for several weeks. Many fans expected him to compete against Solo Sikoa in the “Last Time is Now” tournament. However, sources indicate that Dolph Ziggler is now slated to face Sikoa instead. According to Fightful, preparations for Ziggler’s participation have already been made, marking a significant shift in the narrative that fans anticipated.

The decision to have Ziggler compete against Sikoa alters the dynamic of the match, shifting the focus from familial ties to a high-stakes encounter with an established veteran. This change suggests that WWE creative may have plans for Reigns that will unfold later in the evening or in subsequent episodes.

Adding to the intrigue, Brock Lesnar is reported to have flown into New York City on a private jet and is expected to be backstage at RAW. Lesnar’s involvement raises the stakes for the entire event, as fans will be keenly watching for any potential surprise appearances or confrontations, even if he does not appear on camera.

Expectations and Match Lineup

WWE has confirmed the lineup for tonight’s episode at Madison Square Garden. This event marks Cena’s last appearance on RAW before his retirement match at Saturday Night’s Main Event. While his final opponent has yet to be announced, two first-round matches in the “Last Time is Now” tournament will determine who advances to face him.

In one of the first-round matches, Gunther will compete against Je’Von Evans, while Solo Sikoa will take on a mystery opponent, which has yet to be revealed. Additionally, the Women’s Intercontinental Championship will be defended, with Becky Lynch facing Maxxine Dupri. Fans can also expect an address from Nikki Bella, following her heel turn last week against Stephanie Vaquer.

Other notable names such as CM Punk, Rhea Ripley, Jey Uso, Sheamus, Rusev, LA Knight, and The New Day are also scheduled to appear, adding to the overall excitement of the evening.

As the anticipation builds, the combination of Cena’s farewell, high-stakes matches, and the potential for surprise returns makes this episode of WWE RAW particularly significant. Whether AJ Lee will make her return to the ring, Liv Morgan will tease her comeback, or Brock Lesnar will create a memorable moment, fans in New York are in for an unforgettable experience. For those watching from home, this episode could serve as a defining moment, seamlessly blending nostalgia with fresh storylines before one of WWE’s most storied audiences.

Stay tuned for comprehensive coverage of all the action and developments during tonight’s WWE RAW from Madison Square Garden.