WWE icon John Cena has declared his retirement from in-ring wrestling, much to the surprise of fans worldwide. The announcement came during a special appearance at WWE’s Money in the Bank event held in Toronto, signaling the end of an era for one of wrestling’s most beloved figures. Cena, aged 47, revealed that his retirement will culminate in a farewell tour stretching into late 2025, offering fans multiple opportunities to see him compete one last time.
Addressing the captivated audience, Cena stated, “Tonight I officially announce my retirement from the WWE.” This declaration marks a significant turning point for the wrestler who has been a mainstay in WWE for over two decades. While he has transitioned to a part-time role in recent years to accommodate his burgeoning acting career, this announcement confirms his departure from active competition.
Cena’s acting endeavors have seen considerable success, including his role as The Peacemaker in the 2021 film “Suicide Squad” and an appearance in “Fast X.” His ability to balance Hollywood with his WWE commitments has been a testament to his dedication and versatility.
Reflecting on his illustrious wrestling journey, Cena reminisced about his debut in 2002 when he famously challenged Kurt Angle as an unknown entity. Since then, he has amassed a record-equaling 16 WWE Championship reigns and headlined WrestleMania on five separate occasions. His WrestleMania main event clashes with The Rock in 2012 and 2013 remain iconic moments in wrestling history. Cena’s most recent match was a loss to Solo Sikoa in November, and he last appeared at WrestleMania 40, engaging in a memorable confrontation with The Rock once again.
Explaining the timing of his retirement, Cena shared, “I approached the WWE with this idea and they kind of initiated the talks that this would be a great span of time if we were ever going to do it.” This collaborative approach ensures that Cena’s farewell will be a memorable and fitting tribute to his contributions to WWE.
As part of his farewell, Cena is scheduled to compete at several major WWE events, including the Royal Rumble, Elimination Chamber, and WrestleMania 41. His ambitious plan is to wrestle until the close of 2025, aiming for 30-40 appearances during this final chapter. This “Last Time is Now John Cena Farewell Tour,” a playful nod to his signature entrance theme, promises to be an emotional and exciting journey for both Cena and his legions of fans.
Beyond his in-ring accomplishments, John Cena is also celebrated for his extensive philanthropic work, most notably granting over 650 wishes for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, a record number. His legacy extends far beyond the squared circle, cementing his status as a true icon both in and out of WWE.
