John Cena, a 16-time WWE world champion, has announced his upcoming retirement from WWE, set for next year.
This unexpected declaration came during the “Money in the Bank” event, where Cena, now 47 years old and known for his dual careers in wrestling and acting, shared his retirement plans.
His announcement received a varied response from the audience, with some expressing surprise and others reacting with boos.
John Cena seized the moment to express gratitude, thanking viewers “for allowing me to perform in the house that you built over so many years.”
Speaking at a press conference following the event, Cena reflected on WWE’s narrative-rich environment. “WWE is all about stories—stories concluding and new ones beginning,” he remarked.
“I’ve never been overly concerned with the concept of ‘legacy,’ and I want to clarify: It doesn’t mean I haven’t cherished every moment in the ring.
If I could, I would continue indefinitely. Now, I want to focus on doing something extraordinary for the global audience to whom I owe everything.”
John Cena, a prominent figure in WWE since 2000, has disclosed his intention to complete between 30 to 40 dates through 2025 as he winds down his wrestling career.
Having previously contemplated retirement, Cena feels the timing is right to step away from WWE.
“The industry is currently enjoying unprecedented popularity and visibility,” Cena stated.
“There are significant things happening, particularly with my Netflix debut coming up in January 2025, and I take pride in being someone WWE can count on,” Cena said.
“They can call me up and say, ‘Remember that idea? The time is now.’ Let’s create something that unites us all.”
His 16 championships tie him with the legendary wrestler Ric Flair for the record. Despite others in the industry retiring and then returning, Cena insists that next year will truly mark his departure.
“People often announce their departure and then return two years later,” he noted. “I want to make it clear right now: I’m finished. This is the end.”
Since gaining popularity in WWE, Cena has achieved success on the big screen with roles in films such as “Barbie,” “The Suicide Squad,” and the “Fast & Furious” franchise.
