US actor and wrestler John Cena has announced his retirement from competing in World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) events.
During an appearance at the WWE Money in the Bank event in Canada, John Cena surprised fans with the news of his retirement from wrestling.
At 47 years old, Cena, who began his acting career 18 years ago, revealed that his final WWE match will occur in 2025 as part of a farewell tour.
Regarded as one of the greatest professional wrestlers of all time, Cena has achieved world champion status 16 times since joining WWE in 2001.
John Cena goes on retirement from wrestling
“Tonight, I officially announce my retirement from WWE,” he told the Toronto crowd, who responded with surprise and chanted, “Thank you, Cena”. He acknowledged their reaction, saying, “What an incredible gesture of kindness.”
Wearing a t-shirt that read “The Last Time is Now” and his signature denim shorts, Cena thanked WWE fans for “letting me play in the house that you built for so many years.”
In a follow-up press conference, Cena expressed his intention to stay connected to the WWE family in some way, even though he feels he has reached the end of his physical capabilities.
Cena began his acting career in 2006 with The Marine and went on to star in several major films, including The Suicide Squad, Fast & Furious 9, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Since 2018, he has balanced part-time WWE appearances with his flourishing acting career.
Recently, he made headlines with a nearly naked appearance in a humorous Academy Awards skit, where he was covered only by a strategically placed envelope.
Cena is also the most requested celebrity for children through the Make-A-Wish Foundation, holding a Guinness World Record for the most wishes granted to critically ill children.
