John Cena, the most decorated wrestler in WWE history, officially retired from professional wrestling on December 13, 2025. The 48-year-old announced his retirement during “Saturday Night’s Main Event,” where he faced fellow WWE star Gunther at the Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. This event marked the end of a legendary career that spanned over two decades.
Recognized for his significant contributions to the sport, Cena received heartfelt tributes from various celebrities, including NFL legend Tom Brady and musician Jelly Roll. Brady congratulated Cena on his illustrious career, stating, “Congratulations on an incredible career. You’ve impacted the lives of so many people inside the ring and outside the ring. Good luck in your last match.” This message was played before Cena’s match, highlighting the respect he commands across different fields.
Jelly Roll also expressed his admiration, noting Cena’s record-setting achievement of 17 WWE World Championships. “John Cena, the legendary, never seen 17. Man, thank you for all these years. Thank you for the inspiration. You deserve this, brother. Congratulations, happy retirement,” he said.
Cena’s career has been marked by numerous accolades and memorable moments, including his victory over Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 41, where he secured his 17th championship title on April 20, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nevada. As he reflected on his retirement, Cena emphasized his intention to step away from the wrestling ring permanently.
During an appearance on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, he addressed the skepticism surrounding his decision, saying, “It’s weird, there’s a lot of skepticism out there because this has never been done before. I wanted to give people so much lead time… you do feel a connection with people.” His desire to provide fans with closure was evident as he announced his final match well in advance.
In a conversation with Tom Rinaldi for WWE’s YouTube channel, Cena revealed his plans for the future, stating, “I will be an ambassador to WWE. I’m already signed on for another five years.” He expressed enthusiasm for his new role, highlighting the opportunity to mentor upcoming talent and promote the sport he loves. “It’s not my time to perform anymore. I have a bunch of strengths and gifts that I can pass on,” he stated.
Cena’s retirement marks a significant milestone in the world of professional wrestling, where he has become a symbol of excellence and dedication. His transition to an ambassadorial role within WWE reflects his ongoing commitment to the organization that launched his career in 2002.
As fans and fellow wrestlers celebrate Cena’s legacy, his impact on the wrestling community and beyond remains undeniable. The outpouring of support from icons like Tom Brady and Jelly Roll underscores the profound influence he has had, both inside and outside the squared circle.
