
John Cena Reveals Full Iron Survivor Challenge Lineups For NXT Deadline – The NXT Gold Rush special on November 25, delivered one of the night’s biggest announcements when John Cena stepped into the spotlight to unveil the full lineup for this year’s Iron Survivor Challenge matches at NXT Deadline.
Traditionally, a panel of WWE legends debates and selects the participants, but this year the responsibility was handed entirely to Cena. With that authority, he crafted two fields designed to highlight emerging stars, current champions, and competitors positioned for major breakthroughs.
For the men’s Iron Survivor Challenge, Cena assembled a group that blends NXT talent with representatives from partner promotions. His selections included Je’Von Evans, Leon Slater, Joe Hendry, and Dion Lennox. Slater enters the match carrying the TNA X-Division Championship, while Lennox holds the NXT Tag Team Championship. Each brings a different style and experience level, making the field one of the most varied to date. The final spot did not come from Cena’s hand but through competition. Myles Borne claimed the last position after defeating former NXT Champion Trick Williams in the main event of NXT Gold Rush, securing his place through a decisive performance.
On the women’s side, Cena revealed a lineup that showcases athleticism, power, and championship pedigree. The five competitors selected are Sol Ruca, Lola Vice, Kelani Jordan, Jordynne Grace, and Kendal Grey. Grace enters as one of the most dominant crossover talents on the brand, while Grey represents WWE Evolve as its reigning Women’s Champion. The range of backgrounds creates a dynamic field, with each entrant having a clear path toward a future NXT Women’s Championship opportunity.
NXT Deadline will feature more than just the Iron Survivor Challenge matches. Ricky Saints is scheduled to defend the NXT Championship against former titleholder Oba Femi. Femi, the winner of the 2024 Men’s Iron Survivor Challenge, aims to reclaim the championship he previously lost to Saints earlier this year. This matchup adds another significant layer to a card already built on high stakes and emerging contenders.
NXT Deadline takes place Saturday, December 6, 2025, from the Boeing Center at Tech Port in San Antonio, Texas. Fans can stream the event live on Peacock in the United States and on Netflix internationally.
John Cena Reveals Full Iron Survivor Challenge Lineups For NXT Deadline

