John Cena officially launched the festivities for The John Cena Classic during his appearance on the November 2 episode of WWE RAW, announcing Cody Rhodes as the first participant for the December event. Cena is now set to appear on the November 4 special Wednesday edition of NXT, where he hinted at addressing the roster and potentially scouting the next participant from the brand.
Speculation centers on eight NXT performers who could earn a spot in the Classic. Izzi Dame, a longtime fixture in the women's division, recently scored a major win over NXT Women's North American Champion Zaria at Halloween Havoc. Charlie Dempsey carries the lineage of WWE legend William Regal and has accumulated significant accolades in NXT. Kendal Grey has rapidly risen, capturing the NXT Women's Championship within a year of her debut. Myles Borne, a former NXT North American Champion, impressed in a weapons match against Tavion Heights at Halloween Havoc.
Zaria, the reigning NXT Women's North American Champion, is regarded as one of the brand's most dominant competitors. Zilla Fatu, son of WWE legend Umaga (a former Cena rival), has quickly become a major storyline figure since his debut. Kelani Jordan, the current NXT Women's Champion, has flourished since a heel turn, earning extensive TV time and high-profile matches. Grayson Waller, after a reinvention that included a pipebomb promo and an NXT Championship win, stands as the top male star on the brand and could be the first NXT participant announced by Cena.
