WWE icon bows out as 17-time world champion, leaving a lasting legacy in wrestling and entertainment.

John Cena retires from WWE

WWE superstar John Cena has officially retired from professional wrestling after an illustrious 24-year career, concluding with his final match at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. on Saturday.

Cena faced Gunther in his farewell bout at Saturday Night’s Main Event, where he was forced to submit to a sleeper hold, ending one of the most decorated careers in WWE history. Fans watched in disbelief as Cena, known for never tapping out, finally gave in. After the match, wrestlers from the WWE locker room honoured him, and Cena left his wristbands and boots in the ring, a traditional retirement gesture.

The 48-year-old retired as a 17-time world champion, headlined WrestleMania six times, and became a household name with his iconic “You Can’t See Me” catchphrase. Cena made his WWE debut in 2002, initially struggling as a singles star before rising to fame with the “Doctor of Thuganomics” persona, known for its freestyle rap promos.

Beyond wrestling, Cena has enjoyed a successful career in Hollywood, solidifying himself as one of the few WWE stars to achieve sustained film success.

Cena announced his retirement at Money in the Bank 2024, beginning a farewell tour at the Royal Rumble 2025 and turning heel for the first time since 2003 at Elimination Chamber. He won his record-breaking 17th world title at WrestleMania before passing the torch to Cody Rhodes at SummerSlam.

Cody Rhodes reflected emotionally on Cena’s legacy:
“It’s just still like, when it’s that good you don’t want it to end… he did everything by the book and taught so many people, setting such a high standard.”

John Cena’s retirement marks the end of an era, leaving an indelible mark on professional wrestling and sports entertainment worldwide.