After two decades of redefining the sports entertainment landscape, John Cena has officially announced his retirement from in-ring competition with the WWE.
The 17-time World Champion, beloved by millions and a polarizing figure to others, took his final bow, leaving behind an unparalleled legacy of dedication, charisma, and undeniable impact.
John Cena enters the ring at the WWE SummerSlam 2015 at Barclays Center of Brooklyn on August 23, 2015 in New York City. (Photo by JP Yim/Getty Images)
The Last Stand: Submission Loss to The Ring General Gunther
Cena’s last official match took place last night in the main event of Saturday Night’s Main Event against Gunther, The Ring General. The match was the culmination of Cena’s “The Last Time is Now Tournament” retirement tour.
In a hard-hitting contest, Gunther targeted Cena’s resilience, locking in a devastating sleeper hold. Despite Cena’s repeated attempts to power out and deliver one last final offensive flurry—including an Attitude Adjustment off the steel steps and through the announce table—he was unable to defeat the dominant Gunther.
Cena took a final bow, leaving his iconic sneakers and wristbands in the ring as a symbolic gesture of retirement, telling the camera, “It’s been a pleasure serving you all these years, thank you.”
A Champion’s Haul: Titles and Accolades
John Cena attends WWE SummerSlam Press Conference at Beverly Hills Hotel on August 13, 2013 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Valerie Macon/Getty Images)
John Cena’s career is defined by his championship gold and numerous accolades:
- 17-time World Champion: This unprecedented total includes 14 WWE Championships and 3 World Heavyweight Championships, officially making him the most decorated World Champion in history.
- Grand Slam Champion: He is one of the few men to have won the World Championship, the Intercontinental Championship (which he won in November 2025 to complete the Grand Slam), the United States Championship, and a Tag Team Championship.
- 5-time United States Champion
- 4-time Tag Team Champion
- 2-time Royal Rumble Winner (2008, 2013)
Impact and Legacy: The Face That Ran the Place
John Cena’s influence on WWE and popular culture is immense:
Mainstream Appeal: Cena transcended wrestling, becoming a major mainstream star through film and television, drawing new eyes to the WWE product.
Make-A-Wish Foundation: His incredible dedication to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, granting over 650 wishes, makes him the most requested celebrity in the foundation’s history, showcasing his profound humanitarian impact.
John Cena attends a conversation with Josh Horowitz for “Fast X” at The 92nd Street Y, New York on May 15, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images)
As John Cena hangs up his jorts and wristbands, his legacy as one of the greatest WWE Superstars of all time is undeniable. He may no longer be in the ring, but his impact will continue to be seen for generations to come.
