John Cena stunned fans with his retirement announcement at the Money in the Bank event on Saturday.
The wrestling legend, a 16-time world champion, wore a “The Last Time Is Now” t-shirt as he revealed his plan to retire from WWE in 2025.
“This farewell does not end tonight. It is filled with opportunity,” Cena told the Toronto crowd, adding that he plans to participate in WWE Raw when it moves to Netflix in January.
John Cena also promised appearances at the 2025 editions of Royal Rumble, Elimination Chamber, and WrestleMania 41 in Las Vegas.
In a post-show press conference, the wrestler clarified that he aims to complete at least 30 dates on his retirement tour between January and December 2025.
The crowd chanted “Thank you Cena,” and he reciprocated with heartfelt gratitude to WWE fans.
“Thank you so much for letting me play in the house that you built for so many years,” Cena said.
“Thank you for your loud voices and your beautifully brutal honesty.
And most of all, thank you for being here tonight, as we plan something unforgettable, including my return to Toronto to kick some ass.”
John Cena’s wrestling career
Since signing with WWE in 2001, Cena has become a Hollywood star but remains committed to the WWE family.
“I’ve always said WWE is my home, and I love it. Just because I physically feel I’m at my end doesn’t mean I need to distance myself from something I love,” he stated at the press conference.
WWE chief content officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque praised Cena, calling him the greatest of all time.
“John’s contributions to the business are second to none. When people talk about legends and icons, John is at the top of all of them,” Levesque said.
His announcement marks the beginning of an epic farewell tour that will celebrate his remarkable career and lasting impact on the wrestling world.
Fans can look forward to an unforgettable year as Cena makes his final rounds in the ring, leaving a legacy that will inspire future generations.
