This set up Cena vs. JBL and Layfield was defending his 280-day run as WWE Champion at WrestleMania 21. By the time 2005 rolled around, John Cena was one of the most popular stars on the roster.

8. WrestleMania 21: John Cena vs. JBL (c) for the WWE championship (April 2005) Long before he had a chance at title No. 17, Cena had to get over the hump with his first WWE world championship reign.