The world of professional wrestling witnessed the closing of a monumental chapter as John Cena, the iconic face of WWE for over two decades, officially stepped away from in-ring competition. His retirement, always destined to be an emotional event for the global 'Cenation', culminated a career of unparalleled weight, longevity, and cultural impact.
The Final Act: A Heel Turn and Historic Championship Run
Cena's farewell year was far from a quiet victory lap. In a stunning move that reshaped his legacy, he executed a heel turn for the first time in his storied career, silencing those who believed it would never happen. This bold character shift set the stage for his climactic victory at WrestleMania, where he defeated Cody Rhodes to claim the Undisputed WWE Championship.
This win was historic, making John Cena a 17-time world champion in WWE and adding a landmark achievement to his legendary resume. The farewell tour continued with another symbolic triumph, as Cena defeated Dominik Mysterio to capture the Intercontinental Championship. This victory officially crowned him a WWE Grand Slam Champion, filling one of the few remaining gaps in his career and cementing his status as one of the all-time greats.
A Shocking Finale and a Philosophical Exit
Cena's final match took place on December 13 at Saturday Night’s Main Event, where he faced the formidable Gunther. The conclusion sent shockwaves through the arena: John Cena tapped out. For a superstar whose entire persona was built on the "Never Give Up" mantra, this submission felt jarring and contradictory to millions of fans worldwide.
Days later, Cena provided a rare, reflective explanation on Cody Rhodes's "What Do You Wanna Talk About?" podcast. He reframed the moment, describing the tap-out not as a defeat but as "going peacefully." He likened it to a natural, conscious acceptance of the end, drawing a parallel to Obi-Wan Kenobi's exit in Star Wars. This philosophical take presented his final act as one of graceful closure rather than a collapse.
Legacy Beyond the Ring: A Global Honour
The adoration for John Cena extended far beyond the wrestling ring even after his retirement. In a testament to his massive influence, fans worldwide voted him the 2025 Person of the Year. He secured this honour by edging past football legend Cristiano Ronaldo in a tight contest, winning by a 55 to 45 percent margin. This victory underscored the deep loyalty and admiration he commands across the globe, solidifying his place as a true cultural icon.
John Cena's retirement marks the end of an era defined by resilience, record-breaking achievements, and an unwavering connection with fans. From his unexpected final year as a villain to his philosophical exit and subsequent global recognition, his journey remains a masterclass in building a lasting legacy in sports entertainment.
