In a surprise announcement at WWE’s Money in the Bank event on July 6, John Cena, the 47-year-old wrestling icon, revealed his plans to retire from the sport in 2025. Speaking to a packed Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Cena declared that next year’s Royal Rumble, Elimination Chamber, and WrestleMania events would mark his final appearances in the ring.
“I officially announce my retirement from the WWE,” Cena stated, prompting a mixed reaction from fans, including boos and a chorus of appreciation. “I know, I know, that’s a lot to take in, right? Probably a lot of questions out there,” he acknowledged before expressing gratitude to his supporters with a heartfelt message.
“Thank you,” Cena addressed the crowd amid chants of “Thank you, Cena.” He specifically thanked WWE’s Canadian fans for their unwavering support throughout his career and reflected on the challenges and triumphs he’s experienced over his two decades in the wrestling world.
“Thank you so much for letting me play in the house that you built for so many years,” Cena continued. “Thank you so much for your voice because it’s really loud, and your honesty, because it’s beautifully brutal.”
Following his emotional on-stage announcement, Cena spoke to reporters at a press conference, clarifying his retirement timeline for 2025. He outlined plans to participate in approximately 30 to 40 more wrestling dates from January to December before stepping away permanently from the ring.
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“I want to set the record straight right now. I’m done. This is it,” Cena emphasized, dispelling any speculation of a potential comeback. He expressed pride in being a part of WWE’s upcoming Netflix venture in January 2025, noting the sport’s current peak in popularity and visibility.
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Cena, who began his WWE journey in 2001 and boasts 16 championships, has expanded his career into Hollywood with notable roles in films like Suicide Squad and Barbie. His decision to retire from wrestling comes amidst ongoing personal fitness goals and a commitment to maintain an active lifestyle well beyond his WWE tenure.
“At 47 now, my goal is to be physically active until I can’t,” Cena shared in a recent interview with PEOPLE. “Fitness will be a part of my life, hopefully as long as my heart’s beating. So the WWE has been a great chapter in my life — it’s year 23 for me — and the sun’s setting on that chapter in the book, but fitness will never not be a part of my life.”
As Cena prepares to bid farewell to the ring, he remains grateful for the opportunities and memories created throughout his illustrious WWE career, promising fans a memorable final year before his retirement in 2025.
