CM Punk and John Cena have long been regarded as two of WWE’s greatest in-ring performers, delivering a rivalry that has captivated fans for over a decade. From their iconic clash at Money in the Bank 2011 to their most recent showdown at Night of Champions 2025, the duo has consistently produced some of the most memorable matches in company history.
Interestingly, a large section of the fanbase still considers their 2013 bout on Raw to be the standout match of their rivalry. Reflecting on that encounter during a recent appearance on WWE Now, Punk admitted the match holds special significance for him, underscoring just how meaningful that chapter of his career remains.
CM Punk Declares RAW Encounter With John Cena His All-Time Best Match
During a recent podcast appearance, CM Punk reflected on several of his iconic clashes with John Cena, eventually revisiting their No. 1 contender’s match from 25th February 2013 on RAW, a bout that determined who would go on to face The Rock at WrestleMania 29.
While acknowledging the cultural significance of their Money in the Bank 2011 showdown, Punk admitted that the 2013 encounter holds a deeper personal value for him as a pure wrestling contest.
He said, “I think Money In The Bank is more of a moment. I think, just as a pure contest, that match, I think it was Dallas, that match means a whole lot more to me. I think that’s the best match I’ve ever had”.
Cm Punk says he prefers his match at Monday Night Raw with John Cena over the match at Money In The Bank
— FADE (@FadeAwayMedia) April 8, 2026
“That was the best match i ever had”
(WWE NOW) pic.twitter.com/KynwW0Da3H
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Packed with dramatic near falls, seamless counters, and unpredictable in-ring sequences, the 2013 RAW clash had all the elements of an instant classic, ultimately setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown with The Rock on WWE’s grandest platform.
John Cena Named CM Punk His ‘Wrestling Soulmate’
Given their strong bond behind the scenes, John Cena and CM Punk have consistently spoken highly of each other over the years. Even after Punk’s departure from WWE in 2014, he continued to express respect for the 17-time World Champion, while Cena has never hesitated to return that admiration.
Reflecting on his favorite career moments, Cena pointed to his clash with Punk at Night of Champions, highlighting not just the in-ring brilliance but the emotional depth of their rivalry. He praised Punk for showing accountability, vulnerability, apology, and forgiveness during that period, offering rare insight into their dynamic beyond the spotlight.
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In a conversation with Chris Van Vliet, Cena even referred to Punk as his “wrestling soulmate,” a term that perfectly captures the unique chemistry they shared inside the ring. Despite the ups and downs throughout their careers, the mutual respect between Cena and Punk has remained intact, underscoring one of WWE’s most compelling and enduring rivalries.
