WWE icon John Cena has confirmed his retirement from in ring competition, ending a storied 24 year career that saw him become one of the most decorated and recognisable stars in professional wrestling history. His final bout headlined Saturday Night’s Main Event on 13 December 2025 at the Capital One Arena in Washington DC, closing the curtain on an era.
Cena first revealed his plans to retire during a surprise appearance at WWE’s Money in the Bank event in Toronto in July 2024. He told fans he would embark on a final run through 2025, working a limited schedule that included major shows such as the Royal Rumble, Elimination Chamber and WrestleMania 41.
In October 2025, he restated that decision on social media, saying his last match date was fixed and that he wanted to be remembered as someone whose commitments meant something. He thanked WWE and its global fanbase for the opportunities and support he had enjoyed throughout his career.
Cena made his main roster breakthrough in 2002 and quickly rose to the top of the company. Over two decades, he captured 16 recognised world championships, tying Ric Flair’s record, and headlined WrestleMania multiple times while serving as the face of WWE for much of the 2000s and early 2010s.
In later years, he shifted into a part time role as his acting career in Hollywood expanded, with notable appearances in projects such as Peacemaker and the Fast and Furious franchise. Despite wrestling less frequently from 2018 onward, his appearances remained major attractions and often anchored big storylines.
Away from the ring, Cena built a strong reputation for philanthropy, particularly through his long standing work with the Make A Wish Foundation. He is widely reported to have granted more than 650 wishes, the most by any celebrity, further cementing his impact beyond wrestling.
Although he has now stepped away from active competition, Cena is expected to maintain links with WWE through special appearances and non wrestling roles. Fans and colleagues have paid tribute to him as one of the greatest performers in company history, celebrating a career that helped define modern sports entertainment.
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