One of John Cena’s greatest rivals wasn’t in the building for his final match, but he was watching.
Randy Orton posted a heartfelt tribute to Cena on Instagram following his retirement match against GUNTHER at Saturday Night’s Main Event. Orton revealed he was unable to attend because he was in Saudi Arabia promoting the Royal Rumble and Riyadh Season.
“I would have enjoyed being there in DC… But I know if ANYONE understands my absence, it’s John,” Orton wrote. “The morning of his retirement we exchanged a few texts, and I was honored to speak with him on such a big day.”
Orton praised Cena as an inspiration and thanked him for making the locker room a better place.
“Skys the limit with this guy. An inspiration not only to generations of fans, but to myself… Thanks for being so good to my family over the years.”