WWE legend John Cena offered candid insight this week into the pivotal decision to make 2025 his final year as an active professional wrestler, citing the physical toll of his career.
Cena, who is currently on a unique heel retirement tour as the Undisputed WWE Champion, shared his perspective during an appearance on Stephanie McMahon’s ESPN+ show, Stephanie’s Places.
In a clip he posted to X from the interview, Cena explained an epiphany regarding his physical capabilities. He acknowledged that he can no longer perform at the level he once did.
“My skills are on the regress,” Cena stated. “If I continue at a full-time physical capability or involvement, I’m not gonna run right, my partner’s not gonna run right and our relationship’s not gonna run right. Sorry kid, it’s time to close this chapter.”
Despite this, his passion remains undiminished: “I wish I was 18, I wish I felt great because I don’t feel more at home—besides in the arms of my wife—than I do on a canvas.” Cena also revealed his proactive approach to this final run: “I had pitched this idea, a real wrestling farewell, and hoping that they would see the business of it.”
Cena had announced at Money in the Bank in Toronto in 2024 that 2025 would be his WWE retirement tour. While he has been a part-time performer in recent years due to his burgeoning Hollywood career, his in-ring decline has become more apparent as he recently turned 48, an age at which physical decline is common for wrestlers.
Initially, WWE fans fully supported the start of Cena’s farewell, hoping he would capture a record-tying 17th world title.
He did win the Men’s Elimination Chamber match in February 2025, earning that title shot, but then shocked WWE fans that same night by viciously attacking Cody Rhodes and turning heel for the first time in over two decades, aligning with The Rock.
Cena defeated Rhodes for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania 41 through nefarious means and has since reveled in breaking rules as a dominant heel champion.
This approach is like typical retirement tours, which usually feature beloved babyfaces receiving widespread adulation. Instead, Cena is actively garnering significant heel heat, making his final months arguably the most unique farewell tour in wrestling history, with fans guessing if a final babyface turn might occur before his December exit.