WWE is reportedly lining up an unusual cross-sport attraction for next year’s Fanatics Fest in New York City: retired wrestler John Cena facing Olympic sprinter Noah Lyles in a WWE-themed competition at the 2026 Fanatics Games.
The matchup would come after the originally planned Rhea Ripley vs. Rob Gronkowski bout was reportedly shelved following Ripley’s recent injury.
The plan was reported by WrestleVotes Radio on Fightful Select. It remains unconfirmed as of now, and neither WWE nor the parties involved have publicly announced the pairing.
What Is Confirmed About WWE At Fanatics Fest
WWE has officially announced its return to Fanatics Fest NYC, which runs July 16-19 at the Javits Center. Cena and Ripley are both listed among the wrestlers scheduled to appear at the event.
WWE’s published lineup for the weekend features a deep roster of names alongside Cena and Ripley:
- The Undertaker
- Logan Paul
- Cody Rhodes
- Bianca Belair
- Charlotte Flair
- Becky Lynch
- Liv Morgan
- Randy Orton
- IYO SKY
- Tiffany Stratton
- Jey Uso
- Stephanie Vaquer
Cena’s Continued WWE Presence
Cena has remained a visible part of WWE’s plans beyond active competition. He was recently connected to the rumored launch of a John Cena Classic event, teased in the video below.
John Cena announces the John Cena Classic: Backlash 2026 highlights
For more on where things stand with the veteran, see our coverage of how John Cena might have subtly teased Brock Lesnar’s retirement and the message Sami Zayn received from Cena after his WWE title win.
