John Cena, one of WWE’s most iconic figures, has officially retired from professional wrestling after more than two decades in the ring.
His final appearance took place at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., during Saturday Night’s Main Event, where he faced former champion Gunther in a match that captivated fans worldwide.
The bout lasted nearly 25 minutes, with Cena ultimately submitting to Gunther’s sleeper hold, marking the first time in over 20 years that the superstar had tapped out.
The crowd erupted in chants of “Thank you, Cena,” as the 48-year-old bowed out of the sport that made him a global household name.
Cena’s retirement closes a chapter that began in 2002 when he debuted against Kurt Angle. Over the years, he evolved from his “Doctor of Thuganomics” persona into WWE’s leading face, capturing 16 world titles and headlining countless pay-per-views.
His catchphrase “You can’t see me” became a cultural phenomenon, transcending wrestling and embedding itself in popular cultureThe News International.
The farewell event was filled with tributes from fellow wrestlers, including Roman Reigns, Brock Lesnar, CM Punk, and Triple H, who praised Cena’s legacy.
Triple H later addressed fan backlash over the match’s ending, emphasising that Cena wanted to go out “on his own terms”.
Beyond wrestling, Cena has built a successful career in Hollywood, starring in films such as The Suicide Squad and Fast & Furious 9.
His transition to acting mirrors the path taken by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, though Cena has consistently returned to WWE for special appearances until now.
In his farewell speech, Cena thanked fans for their unwavering support, saying: “This isn’t goodbye, it’s see you later.” His words suggest he may continue to appear in non-wrestling roles within WWE, possibly as a mentor or ambassador.
For millions of fans, Cena’s retirement marks the end of an era. His blend of charisma, resilience, and dedication has left an indelible mark on wrestling history, ensuring his legacy will endure long after his final bow.
Sources: ESPN, The Ring Report, The News International
