John Cena, one of wrestling’s biggest stars, officially ended his in-ring career. On December 13, 2025, after losing by submission in his final match, Cena announced that he is retiring after 23 years in WWE. The event concluded his farewell tour, which he had already announced in July 2024.
Beginnings and the road to fame
John Felix Anthony Cena Jr. was born on April 23, 1977, in West Newbury, Massachusetts. He began his wrestling career in 1999, debuting in WWE (then WWF) in 2002. He quickly gained popularity thanks to his charisma, athletic build and the catchphrase „You Can’t See Me”, which became his trademark. Cena won 16 WWE World Championships, making him one of the most decorated wrestlers in the organization’s history.
For years he was the face of WWE, appearing at major events such as WrestleMania, Royal Rumble and Elimination Chamber. His rivalries with stars such as Randy Orton, CM Punk and The Rock became part of wrestling legend. Outside the ring, Cena also succeeded in Hollywood, starring in films such as „The Fast and the Furious” and „Peacemaker”.
Announcement and fulfilment of the retirement plan
In July 2024, during the Money in the Bank event, Cena surprised fans by announcing that 2025 would be his final year in the ring. „Royal Rumble 2025 will be my last, Elimination Chamber 2025 will be my last, and WrestleMania 41 will be my farewell” – he said at the time. The farewell tour included 36 appearances, culminating in an emotional finale on December 13, 2025.
Reactions to his departure from the ring
Cena’s retirement announcement sparked a wave of emotion, with thanks for years of great entertainment – among those who paid tribute was Dwayne Johnson. The official White House account on X also commented.
John, you are the embodiment of one of my favourite quotes: „It is nice to be important, but it is more important to be nice”.
Congratulations on your historic and remarkable
career in WWE,
my friend.
Have fun, bring the heat and, as always, „thank you for the house”. – Dwayne Johnson on X
