The WWE Universe witnessed history at Elimination Chamber 2025, as two of the most iconic superstars of all time, John Cena and CM Punk, clashed inside the unforgiving steel structure. With a World Championship opportunity at WrestleMania on the line, the stakes couldn’t have been higher. The night delivered jaw-dropping action, shocking returns, and unforgettable moments that will be talked about for years to come.
Cena and Punk Rekindle Their Legendary Rivalry
When CM Punk made his shocking return to WWE in late 2024, fans immediately speculated about a potential showdown with his greatest rival, John Cena. Their past encounters—spanning from their classic Money in the Bank 2011 match to heated battles in 2013—left an undeniable mark on WWE history. The anticipation reached its peak when both men were announced as competitors in the Elimination Chamber Match for a shot at the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at WrestleMania 41.
Cena, who had been absent from WWE since his brief 2023 return, shocked the world when he declared himself for the match. Fans erupted as the 16-time world champion stepped into the Chamber, staring down Punk for the first time in over a decade.
Chaos Unleashed Inside the Chamber
The match featured six top superstars, including Seth Rollins, Drew McIntyre, Cody Rhodes, CM Punk, John Cena, and Gunther. The brutality of the Chamber was on full display as the steel chains and plexiglass pods became weapons.
Punk and Cena were the third and fourth entrants, reigniting their bitter rivalry with a furious exchange of strikes. The two legends showed no ring rust, countering each other’s signature moves while the crowd erupted in dueling chants of “Let’s go Cena! CM Punk!”
Rollins and Rhodes brought high-flying action, while McIntyre and Gunther showcased pure power, delivering devastating slams against the unforgiving steel.
Cena vs. Punk: A Battle for the Ages
As the match progressed, eliminations began piling up. McIntyre was the first to go after a Cross Rhodes from Cody, followed by Gunther’s elimination at the hands of a Curb Stomp from Rollins. With four men remaining, the action intensified.
Cena and Punk found themselves alone in the ring once again, exchanging finishers. Cena delivered an Attitude Adjustment onto the steel floor, but Punk somehow kicked out. Moments later, Punk reversed an STF attempt into an Anaconda Vise, forcing Cena to fight for survival.
In a shocking moment, Rollins attempted a Pedigree on Punk, only for Punk to counter and roll him up for the three-count. With just Cena, Punk, and Cody left, the final moments of the match were electric.
A Stunning Conclusion
Cena delivered another Attitude Adjustment, this time on Cody, but Punk capitalized with a GTS out of nowhere, pinning Cena. The Chicago crowd erupted as Punk eliminated his longtime rival, securing his spot in the final two.
In a dramatic finish, Cody Rhodes pinned Punk after a Cross Rhodes, booking his ticket to WrestleMania 41. However, the night belonged to Punk and Cena, proving their legendary status remains untouchable.
Elimination Chamber 2025 was a night of nostalgia, brutality, and WrestleMania dreams, with Cena and Punk reminding the world why they’re two of the greatest of all time.
