John Cena’s 23-year WWE career officially ended on December 13, 2025, at Saturday Night’s Main Event.
The 16-time (later recognized as 17-time) world champion submitted to Gunther in a hard-fought 24-minute main event, passing the torch to the next generation.
Cena announced his retirement at Money in the Bank on July 6, 2024, launching a farewell tour throughout 2025 titled “The Last Time is Now”.
Cena cited reasons like the **physical toll** after over two decades, his age (turning 48 in 2025), and wanting to step aside for newer talent:
“I want them to feel that they got my best and up to now I can say that they’ve gotten my best and I hope that continues… I just want to do something special for a globe of people that I owe everything to.” he said.
The tour included around 36 appearances, featuring major events such as Elimination Chamber, WrestleMania 41, and Crown Jewel, highlighted by a record-breaking 17th world championship reign.
Gunther earned the final match by winning “The Last Time is Now” tournament against LA Knight.
Cena delivered signature moves, including the Five Knuckle Shuffle, STF, and near-Attitude Adjustments, but ultimately succumbed to Gunther’s sleeper hold.
Post-match, Cena received a standing ovation as the WWE roster lined the stage. He left his wristbands, shoes, and gear in the ring as a symbolic retirement gesture. Looking into the camera, Cena said: “It’s been a pleasure serving you all these years, thank you.” He then gave his trademark military salute one last time before exiting backstage.
Debuting in 2002, Cena became WWE’s flagship star, dominating the Ruthless Aggression and PG eras. He had iconic rivalries with Edge, Randy Orton, Triple H, CM Punk, and The Rock. His accolades include multiple WrestleMania main events, two Royal Rumble wins, and five United States Championships.
Outside the ring, Cena successfully transitioned to Hollywood with roles in the Fast & Furious franchise, Bumblebee, The Suicide Squad, and Peacemaker on HBO Max.
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