In a move that has sent shockwaves through the wrestling world, renowned American actor and wrestler John Cena has announced his retirement from World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). The 47-year-old superstar, who has been a fixture in the WWE for over two decades, made the unexpected announcement during the recent WWE Money in the Bank show in Canada.
Cena, who has won the world champion title an astounding 16 times since his WWE debut in 2001, is widely regarded as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time. Addressing his adoring fans in Toronto, Cena formally declared his retirement from the WWE, prompting a roar of surprise and gratitude from the audience, who chanted “Thank you, Cena!”
Dressed in his signature “jorts” (denim shorts) and a t-shirt bearing the phrase “The Last Time is Now,” Cena expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the WWE enthusiasts who have supported him throughout his illustrious career. He acknowledged that the arena they have constructed over the years has been the foundation for his success and the countless memories he has created.
During a subsequent media briefing, Cena revealed his plans to maintain a connection with the WWE community in some capacity, despite feeling that he has reached a physical limit in his wrestling career. The transition from the ring to the silver screen has been a gradual one for Cena, who made his acting debut in the 2006 film “The Marine.” Since then, he has secured roles in various high-profile movies, including “The Suicide Squad,” “Fast & Furious 9,” and “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.”
Cena’s decision to step away from the WWE comes as he has been balancing his wrestling commitments part-time since 2018, due to his flourishing acting career. The wrestler-turned-actor made headlines in 2023 for a memorable Academy Awards skit where he appeared unclothed, save for a strategically placed envelope.
Beyond his wrestling and acting accomplishments, Cena has also earned the distinction of being the most requested celebrity by children associated with the Make-A-Wish foundation. He has set a Guinness World Record for fulfilling the highest number of wishes for Make-A-Wish children battling severe illnesses, further cementing his status as a beloved figure both in and out of the ring.
As Cena prepares to embark on his final WWE tour in 2025, the wrestling community and his legions of fans worldwide are undoubtedly bidding a bittersweet farewell to one of the most iconic and influential figures in the sport’s history. The legacy he leaves behind is that of a true champion, both in the ring and in the hearts of those he has inspired over the past two decades.
