The curtain is set to fall on one of the most iconic careers in World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) history. John Cena will wrestle for the final time on December 13 at the Saturday Night's Main Event, officially closing a chapter that has spanned over two decades. The 16-time world champion has been unequivocal about his decision, stating he will never step into the ring again after this farewell bout.
A Candid and Heartbreaking Prediction
In a surprisingly candid revelation, John Cena shared a sobering perspective on his legacy post-retirement. During an appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience, Cena predicted that the passionate WWE Universe would move on from him within weeks. "I'm gonna retire on the 13th. They will be moved on by the Royal Rumble. That is real facts. I will be forgotten," Cena stated. He elaborated that by the time the road to WrestleMania begins, the focus would entirely shift to the current show and its stars.
This blunt self-assessment comes despite a recent career milestone. Cena finally achieved Grand Slam Champion status by winning the Intercontinental Championship, only to lose it back to Dominik Mysterio at Survivor Series: WarGames. This achievement, however, did not alter his retirement plans.
The Final Chapter: Details and Stipulations
Cena has left no room for speculation or a potential return, a common trope in professional wrestling. Appearing on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, he firmly declared, "I am absolutely 100% done. The 13th of December on Peacock is my last in-ring performance. I will never wrestle again." He explained that his year-long farewell tour was designed to give fans ample time to process his exit emotionally.
His last opponent will be determined through the "Last Time is Now" tournament, a setup designed to shine a spotlight on a rising WWE superstar, much like Cena's own career was launched years ago. While he joked about his early bedtime, Cena confirmed he would "probably" headline the event, ending the night on a final, memorable note.
Legacy of a WWE Icon
The December match marks the end of an era defined by incredible resilience, fan connection, and memorable rivalries. Cena's legendary run includes a famous temporary heel turn, a reign as the Undisputed WWE Champion, and epic battles against the likes of Cody Rhodes and Brock Lesnar. His commitment to the WWE and its community, both inside and outside the ring, has cemented his status as a true icon of sports entertainment.
As the final bell approaches, John Cena prepares to walk away on his own terms, passing the torch to the next generation while making a realistic, if bittersweet, prediction about his place in the fast-moving world of WWE fandom.
