WWE icon John Cena has officially retired from professional wrestling, bringing an end to a remarkable 24-year in-ring career. His final match took place at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., on Saturday during Saturday Night’s Main Event, where he faced Gunther in a farewell bout.
The 48-year-old superstar was defeated after submitting to a sleeper hold in a contest lasting just under 25 minutes, closing one of the most decorated careers in WWE history. Fans watched in disbelief as Gunther maintained the hold despite chants urging Cena to fight on. When Cena finally tapped out, many in attendance were visibly emotional, marking a poignant moment as the veteran, long known for never submitting, gave in for the first time.
After the match, wrestlers from the WWE locker room emerged to honour Cena. In a symbolic gesture of retirement, Cena left his wristbands and boots in the ring, then walked up the entrance ramp, turning back to offer a final salute to the crowd and cameras.
Cena retires as a 17-time world champion, the most title reigns recognised by WWE. He headlined WrestleMania six times and is widely regarded as one of the greatest professional wrestlers of all time. His signature catchphrase, “You Can’t See Me,” became one of the most recognisable slogans in sports entertainment.
Cena made his WWE debut in 2002, losing to Kurt Angle and initially struggling to establish himself as a singles star. His career turned around with the adoption of the “Doctor of Thuganomics” persona, known for freestyle rap promos, which quickly made him a fan favourite. Beyond the ring, Cena successfully transitioned into Hollywood, becoming one of the few WWE stars to achieve sustained success in film.
Cena had announced at the Money in the Bank Premium Live Event on July 6, 2024, that he would retire from in-ring competition at the end of 2025. His retirement tour began at the Royal Rumble in January, where he was eliminated by Jey Uso. He then shocked fans by turning heel for the first time since 2003 at Elimination Chamber on March 1. Cena captured his record-breaking 17th world title by defeating Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania in April, before dropping both the title and his villain persona back to Rhodes at SummerSlam in August.
A tournament was later organised to determine Cena’s final opponent, with Gunther emerging victorious and earning the right to face him at Saturday Night’s Main Event.
Reflecting on Cena’s impact after the event, current Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes struggled to contain his emotions:
“It’s just still like, when it’s that good you don’t want it to end and I know that’s vague but he did everything by the book and taught so many people and set such a high standard, such a high bar,” Rhodes said.
Cena leaves behind an unparalleled legacy, having inspired countless fans and wrestlers worldwide while cementing his place as one of WWE’s all-time greats.
