John Cena ends legendary WWE career after emotional final match
John Cena has officially retired from WWE after a 24-year career, following his last match at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. on June 14, 2025. The 48-year-old superstar faced Gunther in a dramatic farewell bout, marking the end of one of wrestling’s most celebrated runs. John Cena leaves behind a legacy as a 17-time world champion and a pop culture icon.
Match highlights
- John Cena was defeated by Gunther after submitting to a sleeper hold in a match lasting nearly 25 minutes on June 14, 2025.
- This was the first time in his career that Cena tapped out, stunning fans and leaving many emotional in the arena.
- After the match, fellow WWE wrestlers honored Cena as he left his wristbands and boots in the ring, symbolizing his retirement.
- Cena retires as the most decorated champion in WWE history, with 17 world title reigns and six WrestleMania main events.
- Beyond wrestling, Cena also found success in Hollywood, becoming one of the few WWE stars to cross over into mainstream film.
