John Cena, one of WWE’s most celebrated figures, will compete in his final match next week. The bout will take place on 13 December during Saturday Night’s Main Event. With this match, Cena’s two-decade journey in professional wrestling will come to an emotional close.
Retirement After a Long Career
Cena announced in 2024 that he intended to retire by the end of 2025. Fans hoped he might change his mind, but he remained firm. Over the past year, he mentioned several times that his body could no longer handle the same level of performance.
He said he wanted to leave the ring while he could still give fans strong matches. According to him, WWE respected his decision. The company also expected his retirement story to create positive momentum for its events.
Günther Confirmed as the Last Opponent
WWE has officially revealed Cena’s final opponent: Günther, also known as The Ring General. The match carries added intrigue because both men have never competed against each other before. Many fans have wished for this pairing for years.
Günther earned the spot by defeating LA Knight on 5 December in the final of The Last Time Is Now tournament. His victory strengthened his image as one of WWE’s best in-ring performers. His matches are known for precision, intensity and physical power.
In July 2025, Günther also faced Bill Goldberg in Goldberg’s farewell match and won. That result added to his reputation as a wrestler capable of delivering on big occasions. Because of this, many analysts believe he is the right choice to close Cena’s career.
Recent Achievements: A Historic Title Win
Even as a part-time performer, Cena has delivered remarkable moments. Earlier this year, he defeated Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 41 (Night Two). With that victory, he became a 17-time WWE Champion. No one in WWE’s history has won more world titles.
Fans and commentators described the achievement as a milestone. Many considered it a tribute to Cena’s ability to rise to big moments, even with limited appearances. The win increased interest in the rest of his retirement run.
Why Cena Decided to Retire
In a May 2025 interview, Cena shared the reasons behind his decision. He said his body no longer recovered the way it once did. The physical strain had become harder to manage, and he felt less powerful in the ring. Pushing at full intensity, he added, could damage his long-term health.
Cena also mentioned the pressure of juggling two careers. His Hollywood commitments had increased sharply. Training for matches while filming major projects was no longer realistic. The constant travel made the workload even heavier. Stepping away from wrestling, he said, would help him give his full attention to the projects he could handle with focus and energy.
A Look Back at His Two Decades in WWE
Cena joined WWE in 2001 and quickly rose to the top. His mix of athletic ability, charisma and connection with young audiences made him a central figure for many years. He became one of WWE’s most marketable stars, leading major events and global tours.
Outside the ring, he launched his acting career in 2006 with The Marine. He later appeared in major films including Fast & Furious 9, The Suicide Squad and Trainwreck. Since 2018, he has participated in WWE on a part-time basis.
Cena is also known for his philanthropy. Through the Make-A-Wish Foundation, he holds the record for the most wishes granted by any celebrity. His involvement has earned him widespread respect beyond the wrestling community.
A Final Night Filled With Emotion
As the 13 December event approaches, excitement continues to rise. Fans view the match with Günther as the last chapter in a long and influential career. Many expect the night to be emotional, with tributes planned throughout the event.
Whether Cena wins or loses, the moment will symbolise the end of an era. His journey helped shape WWE for more than 20 years. For many fans, he represents a generation of wrestling that combined entertainment, athleticism and personal connection.
Cena’s final match will not only close a celebrated career. It will also mark a historic moment for a sport that he helped elevate to global popularity.
