As his farewell tour nears its final leg, WWE legend John Cena opens up about his decision to walk away — for good — citing fading enthusiasm and a desire to make space for rising stars.
New Delhi | June 28, 2025 – Wrestling retirements often feel like intermissions. Legends return for one more match, one more pop. But John Cena, arguably WWE’s biggest superstar of the modern era, is looking to rewrite that narrative.
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Currently on his farewell tour with WWE, the 16-time world champion has officially declared that his in-ring career will end in December 2025 — and this time, it’s for real.
Appearing on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Cena addressed the skepticism surrounding WWE retirements with candor and humor. “There is no realism with professional wrestling and retirement,” he said. “But I will absolutely be done by the end of the year.”
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At 48, Cena acknowledges that the physical toll has caught up. “I am just not as enthusiastic as I used to be,” he laughed, reflecting on how different arenas react to his presence — cheers, boos, and everything in between. “Each arena brings its own energy, and that’s what’s made this farewell so special.”
Speaking to Good Morning America, Cena shared that the decision to step away wasn’t sudden but a gradual recognition of his body’s signals. “I’ve been battling myself for a while, trying to ignore the red flags,” he admitted. “But it’s time. I still feel good, I still look good — but I want to step aside and let the young talent take center stage.”
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Despite his insistence, fans and insiders have speculated that Cena will eventually return. Yet, with each interview, he’s made it increasingly clear: this isn’t a gimmick. “Audiences now believe it. And the experience has become electrifying because of that belief,” he added.
Before hanging up his boots, Cena will face CM Punk at the WWE Night of Champions on June 28 in Riyadh and Abu Dhabi — streaming live on Netflix at 11:30 PM IST. The match will be for the WWE Undisputed Championship, which Cena won at WrestleMania 41 and has defended ever since.
If this is indeed his final bow, Cena’s legacy is already secure — not just as a wrestler, but as a cultural icon who defined an era.
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