John Cena’s retirement tour in WWE has generated a lot of discussion. Whether regarding the number of matches or the choice of opponents.
The name Adam Copeland (Edge) frequently came up among fans. Many hoped for a slim chance to see this clash happen one more time in his career, given all the history they shared. Unfortunately, one factor complicated the situation: Adam Copeland’s contract with AEW.
This week, Copeland sat down for an interview with Ariel Helwani and stated that the match was feasible for him and Tony Khan. He believes that one thing prevented the match from happening and it is the WWE executives. Here is his full statement:
”Here’s what I realized: they [WWE and AEW] could have talked together… One party simply didn’t want it to happen. Absolutely, I truly believe AEW would have accepted. Tony knows what this means to a large portion of wrestling fans. I can see things from all sides…
John knew that I was there in spirit. Our two careers would have been great no matter what, but I think this rivalry, this storyline, these two competitors somehow pushed us to another level.
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I’ve never sought to push this match… After having been there long enough [the WWE] and knowing more or less the mindset that rules there, I understood that it wouldn’t happen. If it were up to me and to John? Of course.”
Clearly, the Edge versus John Cena confrontation could have occurred one last time, but ultimately never took place.
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Video – Excerpt from the interview:
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Adam Copeland addresses rumors he was going to be John Cena’s final opponent:
“Here’s what I realized: they could’ve linked up with each other… One place didn’t want it to happen.
Absolutely, [Tony would have allowed it].
I can see it from all sides… John knew I was there… pic.twitter.com/pvG6kAJ3W6
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) August 18, 2026
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