Several big names were on hand for John Cena's retirement match at Saturday Night's Main Event this past weekend. However, many fans were shocked when it became clear that one of his greatest rivals, Randy Orton, was absent.
We've since learned that The Viper was in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, helping to promote the opening of "MrBeast Land." WWE, which continues to have close ties to the country ahead of next year's Royal Rumble and 2027's WrestleMania, also sent Liv Morgan, Tiffany Stratton, Grayson Waller, and Omos to the Kingdom.
Orton has now broken his silence on Cena's send-off, confirming that he had to miss the match due to these commitments in Saudi Arabia.
The former WWE Champion also reflected on their decades-long friendship and revealed that they were in contact by text hours before the Leader of the Cenation fought Gunther at the PLE (a match he ultimately lost).
Cena and Orton faced off in the ring countless times, including earlier this year at Backlash. The Last Real Champion emerged from that match the victor, and it was another stellar showing from both men that stands out as one of Cena's best matches from his final year in WWE.
Orton has been absent from television for a while, and the hope is that he'll be back in time for the Road to WrestleMania (which kicks off next month with the Royal Rumble).
You can read Orton's tribute to Cena in full below.
I broke into the wrestling business and grew up for the past 2 decades alongside @johncena I wrestled with or against him 100 times, at least. I would have enjoyed being there in DC for #wwe #snme and witness his emotional send off into retirement. But I know if ANYONE understands my absence, it’s John, because I was in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia #KSA promoting #riyadhseason and #royalrumble.
The morning of his retirement we exchanged a few texts, and I was honored to speak with him on such a big day. I look forward to following John’s career in Hollywood AND beyond. Skys the limit with this guy. An inspiration not only to generations of fans, but to myself, who was lucky enough to learn firsthand from one of the most OVER wrestlers ever. Thanks for being so good to my family over the years and thanks for making the lockeroom a better place. Take care John, and I’ll see ya around. 👋🏼❤️