WWE legend John Cena ends a historic 24-year career at Capital One Arena as fans, peers, and wrestling icons salute a global superstar.
John Cena retirement became official Saturday night in Washington, D.C., as the WWE icon competed in his final match, losing to Gunther at Capital One Arena. As reported by WWE and confirmed by sources close to the promotion, Cena received an emotional farewell, marking the end of one of wrestling’s most influential careers.
Key Points
- John Cena officially retired after his final WWE match on December 13, 2025
- The match took place at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C.
- Cena lost to Gunther, tapping out for the first time in 20 years
- Nearly 20,000 fans gave Cena a standing ovation
- Cena signed a five-year deal to remain a WWE ambassador
Washington, D.C. (Star Struck Times) — John Cena officially retired from professional wrestling on Saturday night, December 13, 2025, after competing in his final WWE match at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., bringing an emotional close to a legendary 24-year career that defined an era of sports entertainment.
The 48-year-old WWE icon, actor, and 17-time world champion faced Gunther in the last bout of his 16-match retirement tour, a contest that ended with Cena tapping out—his first submission loss in two decades—before a packed crowd of nearly 20,000 fans and millions watching worldwide.
The John Cena final match unfolded as both a celebration and a shock, adhering to wrestling’s long-standing tradition that legends go out on their backs, yet leaving fans stunned by the finality of the moment as one of WWE’s most dominant figures exited the ring for good.
Cena had announced his retirement in July 2024, telling fans his “body hurts” and that it was “screaming to close the chapter,” setting the stage for a farewell run that culminated in Washington with a performance that blended resilience, emotion, and symbolism.
“This is for real; we’re going to go down swinging,” Cena said prior to the match. “Let’s go to work one last time.”
The reaction inside Capital One Arena was thunderous as Cena made his final entrance, with chants echoing throughout the building before turning into a prolonged standing ovation once the bell rang and the reality of his departure settled in.
One fan posted on social media, “I grew up watching John Cena. Tonight felt like saying goodbye to a part of my childhood.”
Another wrote, “Win or lose, John Cena will always be the face of WWE.”
Following the match, WWE officials confirmed that Cena has signed a five-year ambassador deal, ensuring he remains connected to the company as a global representative, mentor, and brand figure long after his in-ring days have ended.
As he walked up the ramp for the final time, Cena paused, saluted the crowd, and addressed the camera directly, saying, “It’s been a pleasure serving you for all these years. Thank you,” before disappearing behind the curtain.
Several WWE legends were seated ringside, including Kurt Angle, Booker T, Trish Stratus, Rob Van Dam, Kevin Owens, and Cody Rhodes, who later joined CM Punk and WWE executives in presenting Cena with championship belts in a symbolic gesture of respect.
Tributes poured in immediately, led by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, who wrote, “We have spilled blood, torn tendons, and broken records. The thing I love most is that you’re a good human being. You are the GOAT.”
Gunther’s victory added another layer of significance, as the Austrian powerhouse has now ended the careers of both Goldberg and John Cena within six months—a feat many believe will not be repeated for years in modern wrestling.
WWE later released a farewell video captioned, “One final goodbye. Thank YOU, John Cena,” showing the superstar leaving the arena for the last time as fans remained on their feet.
The defeat was an ironic yet fitting end for a performer whose mantra, “You can’t see me,” became one of the most recognizable catchphrases in global sports culture, transcending wrestling into mainstream entertainment.
FAQs
Q: When did John Cena retire from WWE?
A: John Cena officially retired on December 13, 2025.
Q: Who defeated John Cena in his final match?
A: Cena lost to Gunther at Capital One Arena.
Q: Will John Cena return to WWE in any role?
A: Yes, Cena signed a five-year ambassador deal with WWE.
Q: How many world titles did John Cena win?
A: Cena is a 17-time world champion.
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