Appearing for the first time on WWE television since July 2019, the hometown crowd gave John Cena a hero’s welcome, a stark contrast compared to his “Cena sucks” days.

The wrestler-turned-actor was in town to announce his plans for WrestleMania and noted that spots on the show are limited and everyone busts their ass for their own WrestleMania moment. The former 16-time world champion said that this year’s WrestleMania from Tampa should go on without John Cena, a statement which the crowd did not like.

Cena said that this is not a goodbye, but rather bye for now as spots on the WrestleMania card are earned, not demanded. Cena got emotional when he talked about his friends and family and said he doesn’t know when he will be back on WWE television.

After thanking the fans, Cena walked off to his iconic theme song and just when he gave the fans another salute, the lights went off. When the lights came back on, The Fiend was standing behind Cena to a loud ovation from the fans.

The Fiend then pointed to the WrestleMania sign from the top of the ramp and the fans broke into a “Yes!” chant. Cena tipped his hat to The Fiend, accepting his challenge.

Cena and Wyatt already wrestled at WrestleMania XXX in New Orleans.