John Cena Bids Farewell to Wrestling: Retirement, Final Match, Legacy, and What’s Next?

John Cena, one of the most recognizable and decorated figures in professional wrestling history, is officially winding down his in‑ring career in 2025, culminating in a highly anticipated final match slated for Saturday, December 13, at WWE’s Saturday Night’s Main Event XLII in Washington, D.C. This moment marks the end of an extraordinary chapter for a performer who has dominated the sport for more than two decades and become a global cultural icon.

Cena’s retirement has been in the works since mid‑2024, when he formally announced his plan to step away from active competition later in 2025. The announcement set off a farewell journey — often referred to as “The Last Time Is Now” tour — with appearances across WWE events including the Royal Rumble, Elimination Chamber, WrestleMania, and premium live events throughout the year.

A Career Defined by Records and Influence

John Felix Anthony Cena began his WWE career more than 25 years ago and quickly became a cornerstone of the company’s global appeal. Over his illustrious tenure, he amassed 17 world championship reigns, becoming a perennial main‑event presence and a figure deeply ingrained in WWE’s identity. Even while appearing part‑time since 2018, Cena remained one of the most high‑profile and marketable stars in professional wrestling.

His appeal transcended the sport: Cena became a familiar face in Hollywood, starring in major films and television series, including his celebrated portrayal of the title character in Peacemaker. He also became known for his overwhelming support of charity work, particularly with the Make‑A‑Wish Foundation, where he granted hundreds of wishes, making him the individual with the most wishes granted in the organization’s history.

Final Match Set Against Gunther

WWE confirmed that Cena’s last wrestling match will take place at Saturday Night’s Main Event XLII, scheduled for December 13, 2025, at the Capital One Arena. Cena will face Gunther, a stern technical competitor and multi‑time champion himself, after Gunther earned the opportunity by winning the “Last Time Is Now” tournament.

Gunther — known for his disciplined ring style and long championship runs — has spoken publicly about his pride in being chosen as Cena’s final opponent. In interviews, he has described the opportunity not just as a career highlight, but as a symbolic passing‑of‑the‑torch moment, even while acknowledging Cena as one of the greatest wrestlers ever.

Emotional Tributes and Peer Recognition

In the lead‑up to his retirement match, Cena has received an outpouring of respect from peers across the wrestling world. Sting — himself a retired legend — publicly expressed admiration for Cena’s legacy, labeling him one of the greatest of all time and expressing support for his final bout.

Wrestlers such as Finn Bálor have also shared heartfelt tributes, praising Cena not just for his in‑ring achievements but for his mentorship and leadership behind the scenes. Bálor credited Cena with embodying a positive example and helping guide younger talent during their early WWE careers.

Even veteran stars like The Rock have weighed in, acknowledging Cena’s impending retirement and the magnitude of his final match, further cementing the significance of this transition in wrestling history.

Farewell Tour Highlights

Throughout 2025, Cena’s farewell tour delivered many memorable moments. He became a Grand Slam Champion at Monday Night Raw by winning the Intercontinental Championship in his hometown, and he competed in marquee matches against top rivals old and new. Along the way, he battled Cody Rhodes, Randy Orton, CM Punk, Logan Paul, and others — showcasing a career that blended era‑defining rivalries with nostalgic reverence.

What Comes After the Final Bell

Though Cena’s in‑ring career ends with the December 13 match, reports indicate he will remain active with WWE in a non‑wrestling role following his retirement. Cena has signed a multi‑year deal to serve as a WWE ambassador, mentoring new talent and representing the brand globally.

Legacy and the End of an Era

John Cena’s retirement marks the conclusion of an era that spanned decades and shaped modern professional wrestling. His retirement match against Gunther is poised not just to close a career, but to celebrate a legacy that helped define wrestling’s global reach.

By Ekolense International Desk