John Cena, the veteran wrestler who is now an actor, announced his intention to step down from the ring at the end of 2025, after marking an incredible 20-year career in wrestling. He did, however, emphasized that his journey is far from over. 

Cena has left his fans stunned with his decision to leave the WWE, after a legendary 16-year tenure as a World Champion. He made an unexpected appearance at the ‘Money in the Bank Premium Live Event in Toronto’, unveiling his new t-shirt, bearing the words “The Last Time is Now” and formally announced his impending retirement. In a video released on WWE’s official platforms, Cena thanked his fellow wrestlers and supporters and departure from active competition within the next few years.  

Cena’s Wrestling Career 

John Cena began his WWE journey in 2002 on SmackDown by accepting Kurt Angles’ challenge. He quickly gained popularity as the “Doctor of Thuganomics” and swiftly became a favorite amongst his fans. Soon after, he clinched his first WWE Championship and won 13 times, alongside two Royal Rumble triumphs and three World Heavyweight Championships.  

Cena’s one of the hallmark projects was ‘The Marine’, in which he played the role military man. Cena went on to featuring in other movies, like ‘Legendary and 12 Rounds.’ 

Balancing his Hollywood career, Cena has reduced his WWE appearances, but still plays a crucial role, not to forget his trip to India in 2023. His recent WWE highlights were his intervention at WrestleMania 40 with Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes.  

Announcing his Farewell 

Before announcing his retirement from the company, Cena was introduced as WWE Hall of Famer Trish Stratus to the crowd in Toronto. Initially, it was thought that WrestleMania would be his last match, however, Cena declared that WrestleMania 41 would be his final appearance at the Show of Shows, and he plans to wrestle until December 2025.  

“Tonight, I announce my retirement from the WWE.” John Cena declared within the ring.  

WWE | BREAKING: @johncena has officially announced he is retiring from WWE 😮‍💨 #MITB | Instagram 

Cena expressed his desire, vowing to stay engaged with the wrestling organization where his career began and promised a farewell tour including many shows and a championship match.  

“I’m grateful to everyone for allowing me perform in the house you have created over the years”, Cena said to the crowd. Following the event, Cena told the reporters in a news conference that even though he’s physically ‘at the end of the rope’, but that doesn’t mean he intends to distance himself from the sport he holds so dear.