John Cena’s wrestling career has been one of the most iconic in WWE history, but the actor and superstar is now preparing to step away from the squared circle after 25 years. In a recent appearance on Good Morning America, Cena revealed that there is ‘no way’ he will return to WWE after his retirement tour ends in 2025. He made it clear that while he doesn’t want to speak in absolutes, he feels it’s crucial to honor the fans who’ve supported him for decades. ‘They allowed me to sit with you today. I wouldn’t want to disrespect them by going back on my word,’ Cena said. 
‘This is an event – when people attend, it’s very exclusive.’
Having built a career that spans movies, television, and charity work, Cena’s wrestling legacy is cemented as one of the greatest. However, he doesn’t want to ‘ruin’ the connection he’s cultivated with fans. He explained, ‘I still look good, I still feel good, I still feel like I can perform at a WWE level, but it’s time to step aside and let the next generation take the spotlight.’ Cena also shared his thoughts on knowing when it’s time to retire: ‘I think you intrinsically know when your instinct says, ‘I’m a step slower.’ It’s then just a battle of how long do you fight those red flags before it could be counterproductive.’
To mark the final stage of his wrestling journey, Cena announced a massive farewell tour, performing in 36 states over the year. The audiences have been electrifying, with fans now fully aware that his last match will take place in December. Cena’s decision to retire is especially poignant given the change he underwent during the WWE Elimination Chamber, when he executed a rare heel turn. This shift in his character was in stark contrast to the ‘good guy’ persona he’s built over the years, and it led to the humorous meme linking it to the much-anticipated GTA 6 release.
Cena’s next big project is his role in the action comedy Heads of State, which will premiere on Prime on July 2, followed by Peacemaker Season 2 in August. Cena’s departure from wrestling signals the end of an era, but it’s clear that his journey into acting and new ventures will continue to keep him in the public eye.