Actor and wrestler John Cena has announced his retirement from World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) events. Making the surprise announcement at the WWE Money in the Bank event in Canada, the 47-year-old revealed that his final in-ring competition will be part of a farewell tour in 2025.
Cena, widely regarded as one of the greatest professional wrestlers ever, achieved world champion status 16 times since joining WWE in 2001.
Addressing fans in Toronto, Cena declared, “Tonight I officially announce my retirement from the WWE,” eliciting surprise and chants of “thank you Cena” from the audience.
Sporting a t-shirt with “The Last Time is Now” and his trademark “jorts” (denim shorts), he expressed gratitude to fans for their support over the years, describing WWE as “the house that you built.”
Despite feeling “at my end” physically, Cena intends to remain involved with WWE in some capacity.
Since his acting career took off in 2006 with his debut in The Marine, Cena has starred in major films such as The Suicide Squad, Fast & Furious 9, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
Transitioning to part-time WWE appearances in 2018, he made headlines earlier this year for a memorable Academy Awards skit involving a strategically placed envelope.
Beyond his entertainment career, Cena holds a Guinness World Record for granting the most wishes to children through the Make-A-Wish charity, making him the most-requested celebrity by kids with critical illnesses.