Wrestling Legend John Cena to Retire from WWE in 2025 After Two Decades
3 min read
WWE/Getty Images
John Cena, the iconic wrestling superstar and actor, has officially announced his retirement from WWE, set for 2025. World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) made the announcement on their social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on July 7. Cena revealed that his final in-ring appearance will be at WrestleMania 41 in Las Vegas.
John Cena shared this emotional news during an event in Toronto, where he expressed deep gratitude to his dedicated fans. Despite a mix of cheers and disappointment from the crowd, John Cena confirmed his plans to step away from the ring and embark on a farewell tour next year.
happy retirement @JohnCena 💙 pic.twitter.com/VNBaqT59ao
— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) July 7, 2024
“The 2025 Royal Rumble will be my last,” Cena announced. “The 2025 Elimination Chamber will be my last. And I’m here tonight to announce that in Las Vegas, WrestleMania 2025 will be the last I compete in.” He continued, “Thank you so much for letting me play in the house that you built for so many years. Thank you so much always for your voice because it’s really loud, and your honesty because it’s beautifully brutal.”
Cena’s heartfelt announcement was complemented by a touching backstage video shared by WWE Head of Creative Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque. The clip, showing the two embracing, was captioned, “The Greatest of All Time.”
John Cena’s wrestling journey began in 2001, and he made his WWE debut in June 2002. Over the years, he became one of the most celebrated superstars, prominently featuring during the ‘Ruthless Aggression’ and PG eras. Since 2018, Cena has taken on a part-time role in WWE, focusing more on his burgeoning film career, much like his former rival, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson. Despite this, Cena has made notable returns, including a memorable appearance at WrestleMania 40, aiding Cody Rhodes in defeating Roman Reigns for the WWE Championship.
me watching me watching
— 👑𝔸𝕕𝕒𝕞 𝔾𝕠𝕝𝕕𝕓𝕖𝕣𝕘👑 (@AdamGoldberg28) July 7, 2024
John cena at John cena at
the age of 5 the age of 25 pic.twitter.com/0nI0umHXEB
Throughout his nearly 20-year tenure with WWE, Cena has amassed numerous accolades, including an impressive 16-time WWE Championship reign. His transition from wrestling to Hollywood has been equally successful, with roles in popular movies like “Barbie,” “Argylle,” and the “Fast & Furious” series, showcasing his versatility as an entertainer.
Despite his success in Hollywood, John Cena has remained committed to his wrestling persona. Explaining his decision to retire, Cena drew parallels to the WWE “Money in the Bank” event, symbolizing opportunity. “Why now? Because it’s money in the bank, the ultimate symbol of opportunity,” Cena said. “And th is farewell does not end tonight — it is filled with opportunities.”
Undisputed greatest of all time.
— (🦥) Deonte DDJ (@deonteddj) July 7, 2024
Thank you John Cena. pic.twitter.com/Sa7fUHTCYU
In addition to his retirement announcement, Cena highlighted WWE’s groundbreaking move of transitioning “RAW” Monday-night matches to Netflix, marking a significant moment for the franchise. He expressed excitement about commemorating his final matches alongside these new beginnings.
With his signature blend of humility and showmanship, Cena encouraged fellow WWE superstars to seize the moment, saying, “If you want some, hurry up and come get some.” His upcoming farewell tour promises to be a series of memorable events, culminating in an unforgettable final WrestleMania performance in Las Vegas.
As John Cena prepares to bid farewell to the ring, fans can look forward to celebrating the illustrious career of a wrestling legend who has left an indelible mark on WWE and the entertainment industry.
We grew up with you @JohnCena even tho you're invisible, we see you 🖤 thank you for everything pic.twitter.com/j3T86xHVgn
— BossLogic (@Bosslogic) July 7, 2024
john cena retired from WWE. my childhood is dead pic.twitter.com/umpeWCYBdz
— LILAFRIMANE (@LORAFRIMANEE) July 7, 2024
Shivam Kumar
Hi, I'm Shivam Kumar. I'm pursuing Journalism honors from the IP University. I love the skill of writing and looking forward to learn more of it. Also I love traveling and experiencing new things every day....
