John Cena, one of the most iconic figures in professional wrestling, has announced his impending retirement from WWE. The announcement came as a surprise during WWE’s “Money in the Bank” event held in Toronto on Saturday.
Cena’s Final WWE Events
During the event, Cena made a special appearance and revealed his plans for his final WWE matches. “The 2025 Royal Rumble will be my last. 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 WrestleMania I compete in,” Cena told the live audience. This declaration was met with a heartfelt response from the crowd, who chanted, “Thank you Cena!” in unison. Cena, visibly moved, expressed his gratitude, saying, “I want to say thank you.”
Excitement Over WWE’s Move to Netflix
In addition to his retirement announcement, Cena expressed his excitement about WWE Raw’s upcoming transition to Netflix. Starting in January, WWE Raw will make history by becoming available on the streaming platform, a move that Cena is particularly enthusiastic about. “Raw makes history next year when it moves to Netflix. I’ve never been a part of Raw on Netflix. That is history, that is a first, and I will be there,” Cena stated. This deal is a significant milestone for WWE, reflecting its evolution and adaptation to modern viewing habits.
Commitment to WWE Until Retirement
Despite his impending retirement, Cena reassured fans that he would remain involved with WWE up until his final match. During a post-show press conference, Cena promised a “long list of dates” between January and September, ensuring fans multiple opportunities to see him in action before he officially hangs up his boots. “People say they’re walking away, and two years later they come back. I want to set the record straight right now, I’m done. This is it,” Cena emphasized. He made it clear that his decision is final and encouraged fans to join him for these final appearances, promising to make them memorable.
On Vince McMahon
The press conference also touched on the subject of Vince McMahon, the former WWE CEO who stepped down in January amid allegations of sexual assault. When asked about his thoughts on McMahon, Cena chose to focus on the future of WWE rather than dwell on the past. “The WWE is in good hands with parent company TKO Group Holdings,” Cena said, avoiding direct commentary on the allegations. However, in a February interview with Howard Stern, Cena had expressed his personal feelings about McMahon. “I’ve openly said, I love the guy, I have a great relationship with the guy, and that’s that,” Cena told Stern. Despite the controversy surrounding McMahon, Cena affirmed his support for him, underscoring his belief in accountability.
A Storied Career
Cena’s announcement marks the end of an era in professional wrestling. Over nearly two decades, Cena has become synonymous with WWE, winning 16 world championships and engaging in memorable feuds with wrestling legends such as Kurt Angle, Triple H, and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. His catchphrases, “You can’t see me” and “Never give up,” have become part of wrestling lore, and his impact on the sport is undeniable.
Cena’s Ventures Outside the Ring
Beyond wrestling, Cena has made significant strides in the entertainment industry. He released a studio rap album, “You Can’t See Me,” in 2005, which was well-received by fans. His acting career has flourished, with starring roles in major films like “Bumblebee,” “F9: The Fast Saga,” and “The Suicide Squad.” These ventures have allowed Cena to reach a broader audience, showcasing his versatility and talent beyond the wrestling ring. As his acting career took off, Cena’s appearances in WWE became less frequent, paving the way for his eventual retirement.
A Final Thank You
Reflecting on his career, Cena acknowledged the contributions of those who came before him and those who will follow. “There were many before me, there will be many after. I guess what I have left to do is say my thank yous before that chapter closes,” Cena said. His farewell is not just a personal milestone but a significant moment for WWE and its fans, who have followed his journey from a rising star to a wrestling legend.
Legacy and Future
Cena’s retirement marks the conclusion of a significant chapter in professional wrestling. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of WWE superstars. As he steps away from the ring, Cena’s influence on the sport and his contributions to WWE will be remembered and celebrated. His farewell tour promises to be a grand finale to a storied career, and fans will cherish the opportunity to see him perform one last time.
John Cena’s announcement is a poignant reminder of the impact he has had on professional wrestling and the entertainment industry. As he prepares for his final matches, Cena’s gratitude to his fans and commitment to giving them memorable performances is a testament to his dedication and passion. The wrestling world will bid farewell to one of its greatest stars, but Cena’s legacy will live on, both in the ring and beyond.
