John Cena Announces Retirement from Wrestling: WrestleMania 2025 to Mark Final Match of His Glorious Career
John Cena, the iconic wrestler and Hollywood star announced his retirement from wrestling, which will take effect after WrestleMania 2025, with an emotional farewell to his fans during a recent show in Toronto.
Amidst applause and cries of “Thank you, Cena,” Cena, a 16-time WWE champion recognized for his charisma and in-ring prowess over nearly two decades, showed appreciation to his devoted fans.
After thanking the crowd, the former professional wrestler turned actor issued a challenge to other franchise fighters, telling them to “hurry up and come get some.”
John Cena announced his retirement from the ring on Saturday night, calling the WWE WrestleMania of 2019 his last. He did this while giving a moving message of thanks to his wrestling fans.
In Toronto, Cena addressed an audience that was obviously against his leaving. When the actor-turned-wrestler announced his “official retirement,” which includes a farewell tour for next year, the crowd booed.
“It’s going to be my last Royal Rumble,” Cena declared. “I’ll be leaving the 2025 Elimination Chamber.” And I’m here tonight to declare that WrestleMania 2025 in Las Vegas will be my final competition.
The audience started chanting “Thank you, Cena” as the speaker—who had spoken for about six minutes—came to a close. He described it as a “beautiful act of kindness.”
Cena expressed his gratitude, saying, “I’m so grateful that you let me play in the house you built for so many years.” “Thank you so much for your honesty—which is beautifully brutal—and for your voice—which is really loud.”
Throughout the course of his nearly 20 years with the wrestling company, Cena has won 16 WWE championships. He has also made the move to Hollywood during that period, appearing frequently in the “Fast & Furious” franchise and starring in movies like “Barbie” and “Argylle.”
However, Cena has never abandoned his acting career and character in favor of his wrestling profession. The celebrity made reference to the WWE “Money in the Bank” event where he was speaking in an attempt to explain why he was deciding to step down at this time.
“Why at this moment? Since cash in the bank is the ultimate representation of opportunity, Cena stated. “And there are plenty of opportunities ahead — this farewell doesn’t end tonight.”
He continued by mentioning the historic move of WWE’s “RAW” Monday-night bouts on Netflix. Together with these “firsts,” Cena will also commemorate his numerous “lasts.”
Also Read: WWE Money in the Bank 2024: Event Recap and Match Results
Cena also appeared to be hinting at highly anticipated bouts by yelling at WWE heavyweights. “If you want some, hurry up and come get some,” he said to them. “Because this is the last time,” Cena remarked.
Cena declared in a news conference held after the show that he will remain in the WWE and that WrestleMania will not be his last match. He stated that his farewell tour, which will presumably feature numerous dates from January to December 2025, will culminate with his last in-ring match.
Despite the fact that he won’t be competing, Cena informed reporters he has come up with a strategy to keep him involved with the team in other roles.
“I love WWE and I’ve always told the audience that,” Cena remarked. “Merely feeling like I’m nearing my end doesn’t mean I have to cut ties with something I love.”
John Cena: A Career Defined by Hustle, Loyalty, and Respect
Born in West Newbury, Massachusetts, on April 23, 1977, John Cena became one of the most recognizable characters in professional wrestling history. Over the course of his two-decade career, he has won multiple titles, been involved in noteworthy rivalries, and made contributions both inside and outside of the ring.
When John Cena signed with WWE (formerly known as the WWF) in the early 2000s, his career in professional wrestling officially began. His captivating personality and skill in the ring propelled him to a rapid climb that began with his main roster debut in 2002. With his distinct combination of physical prowess, command of the microphone, and endearing demeanor that appealed to fans of all ages, Cena swiftly gained recognition.
When Cena defeated JBL to win his first WWE Championship at WrestleMania 21, it was his first significant victory. With this victory, he shot to fame as the new face of WWE and as a representation of tenacity and willpower.
Cena has racked up an incredible resume over his career, which includes 16 championship reigns as WWE Champion, a record he tied with Ric Flair. Memorable feuds and fights against some of WWE’s greatest rivals, like as Edge, Brock Lesnar, and Randy Orton, defined his championship reigns.
Cena’s ability to participate in captivating rivalries that attract spectators globally is one of his distinguishing traits. Some of the most unforgettable moments and matches in WWE history have come from his feuds with opponents like AJ Styles, CM Punk, and The Rock. Notably, Cena’s feuds with The Rock led to back-to-back main bouts at WrestleMania, demonstrating his talent on the biggest platform of them all.
Cena has made a smooth transition from professional wrestling to the entertainment industry, appearing in hit movies including “Trainwreck,” “Blockers,” and the “Fast & Furious” series. His captivating personality and presence on screen have brought him a great deal of praise in Hollywood.
In addition to his vast charitable efforts, Cena is renowned for having granted over 650 wishes for the Make-A-Wish Foundation—a record-breaking accomplishment that demonstrates his dedication to giving back to the community.
The influence of John Cena on professional wrestling goes beyond titles and honors. His motto of “Hustle, Loyalty, and Respect” has inspired millions of admirers worldwide and has come to define his personality. Cena continues to have a significant impact on WWE and popular culture, regardless of his role as a heroic champion or a dynamic performer.
Even though Cena’s career is still developing, his status as a trailblazer and representative of professional wrestling will never fade. John Cena‘s career is proof of the strength of tenacity, commitment, and aiming for excellence in all undertakings—whether on the mat or in the ring.
