John Cena Set for SmackDown Return Match Against R-Truth—Could Be His Last on the Blue Brand
John Cena returns to SmackDown on June 20 to face R-Truth in a rematch that could be his last. King & Queen of the Ring semifinals also set for the show.
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WWE legend John Cena is set to return to in-ring action on SmackDown next Friday (June 20), facing off against R-Truth in what could be his final match on the blue brand. This marks Cena’s first match on SmackDown since 2022.
The rematch comes after R-Truth—real name Ron Killings—repeatedly ambushed Cena during the June 13 episode, forcing General Manager Nick Aldis to intervene and make the bout official for next week.
While Cena and Truth recently clashed at Saturday Night’s Main Event, WWE commentator Wade Barrett emphasized that fans should expect a much different encounter this time around.
“This is a very, very different R-Truth than the one we’ve seen before, after a number of assaults here on SmackDown,” Barrett said. “Next week, John Cena gets the chance to get even.”
The June 20 episode will also feature major tournament action as the King & Queen of the Ring semifinals continue. Alexa Bliss is confirmed for one of the Queen of the Ring matches, though her opponent will be determined on Raw (June 16) in a fatal four-way featuring Stephanie Vaquer, Raquel Rodriguez, Ivy Nile, and the returning Asuka.
In the men’s bracket, Randy Orton will go one-on-one with Sami Zayn, while tournament favorite Cody Rhodes is expected to be closely watching the outcome.
Confirmed Matches for June 20 SmackDown:
- John Cena vs. R-Truth
- Queen of the Ring Semifinal: Alexa Bliss vs. TBD
- King of the Ring Semifinal: Randy Orton vs. Sami Zayn
With Cena’s future on SmackDown uncertain, next week’s showdown could mark a pivotal moment in WWE’s ongoing summer storylines.
