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John Cena revealed on Sunday his upcoming retirement from professional wrestling, announcing that 2025 will mark his final year competing in a WWE ring.
Making a surprise appearance at Saturday's "Money in the Bank" Premium Live Event to share the news, Cena stated that next year's "Royal Rumble," "Elimination Chamber," and "WrestleMania" events will be his farewell shows. Clarifying during a post-event press conference, Cena indicated he would have approximately 30 to 40 dates scheduled from January 2025 through December, after which he plans to step away.
"I proposed this idea to WWE, and they agreed it would be a fitting timeframe," Cena explained. "The industry is currently experiencing tremendous popularity and visibility. Significant developments, including the Netflix debut in January 2025, are underway, and I'm honored to be someone WWE can rely on to say, 'Remember that concept? The time is now.' Let's create something that unites us all. They'll craft the narratives, and we'll deliver to the best of our abilities."
Cena, aged 47, debuted in WWE in 2000 and has been a fixture since 2001. He is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished professional wrestlers ever. His 16 world championships in WWE are equaled only by Ric Flair, recognized by the company as the most in its history. This final stint could potentially pave the way for his 17th championship, should WWE decide to pursue it.
Cena has consistently maintained he would not continue wrestling beyond the age of 50. Despite the wrestling industry's tradition of comebacks, Cena has affirmed he will not return to active competition nor take on roles like guest refereeing.