Backstage Note on How WWE’s Disney World Plans Led To John Cena Classic

WWE is preparing to bring its programming to Walt Disney World for the first time, with two events planned for December. The company’s upcoming Disney debut will also include a special fan experience at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida.

According to a new WrestleVotes report, the John Cena Classic became the event WWE wanted to pursue after years of discussions about a potential Disney venture. They had previously reported in early September that WWE was interested in holding an event at the complex.

“Back in early September, we reported exclusively on Fightful Select that WWE had interest in hosting an event on Disney property at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. We’re told a number of ideas had been discussed over the past few years as part of WWE’s potential Disney venture. However, once the John Cena Classic became a reality, that was the direction those involved wanted to see through. And now, here we are. WWE’s debut event at Disney World: The John Cena Classic, followed by a Worlds Collide event on December 15, featuring a Marvel Avengers theme.”

The inaugural John Cena Classic is scheduled for Monday, December 14, at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Netflix will stream it live as a special edition of Monday Night Raw. The tournament will feature WWE’s top names from Raw and SmackDown against rising stars from NXT. Cody Rhodes has been announced as the first invitee, while the winner will receive the John Cena Classic Championship.

Club WWE members will also have a say in the tournament, with voting determining its participants. WWE and Disney have also announced a second event for December 15. An Avengers: Doomsday-themed edition of Worlds Collide will feature talent from WWE, NXT, and AAA. The show will take place three days before Avengers: Doomsday arrives in U.S. theaters on December 18.

Back in early September, we reported exclusively on Fightful Select that WWE had interest in hosting an event on Disney property at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

We’re told a number of ideas had been discussed over the past few years as part of WWE’s potential Disney…

— WrestleVotes (@WrestleVotes) November 3, 2026