US wrestling superstar John Cena has retired from in-ring competition after a glittering 24-year career, capping his tenure with a defeat in his final match at a WWE event in Washington.
The 48-year-old icon, known for his “You Can’t See Me” catchphrase, faced Austrian wrestler Gunther in a nearly 25-minute bout on December 14 at the Capital One Arena during Saturday Night’s Main Event.
Cena, who had never submitted in a match before, tapped out to a sleeper hold amid chants from fans urging him to continue. He then left his wristbands and boots in the ring — a symbolic gesture of retirement — before saluting the crowd and exiting.
The Massachusetts native retires as a record 17-time world champion and a six-time headliner at WrestleMania, WWE’s flagship event. He debuted in 2002 with a loss to Kurt Angle and rose to fame through his “Doctor of Thuganomics” persona, featuring freestyle rap promos that resonated with audiences.
Beyond the ring, Cena has built a successful Hollywood career as an actor.
He first announced his retirement plans at the Money in the Bank event on July 6, 2024, stating he would conclude his in-ring career by the end of 2025.
His farewell tour began at the Royal Rumble in January 2025, where he was eliminated by Jey Uso. Cena turned heel — adopting a villain role for the first time since 2003 — at the Elimination Chamber in March, before claiming his 17th world title by defeating Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania in April.
He relinquished the belt and his heel persona to Rhodes at SummerSlam in August. Gunther earned the right to face Cena in his swan song by winning a tournament.
Following the match, the WWE locker room emerged to honor Cena.
Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes paid tribute, saying: “It’s just still like, when it’s that good you don’t want it to end and I know that’s vague but he did everything by the book and taught so many people and set such a high standard, such a high bar.”104703
