WWE: John Cena Retires From Wrestling After Losing Fight To Gunther

US actor and wrestler John Cena fought the final fight of his 16 match retirement tournament in Washington on Saturday night, bringing to a close an illustrious 24-year career that saw him become one of wrestling’s biggest and most recognisable stars.

The 48-year-old announced his retirement back in July 2024, telling fans at the time that his “body hurts” and was “screaming to close the chapter”.

It has been confirmed, however, that he will remain a part of the WWE family after he signed a five-year deal to be an ambassador.

Fans gave Cena a standing ovation at the end of Saturday’s match and he left the ring, for the final time, to thunderous applause.

John Cena wrapped up his career with a submission loss at the hands of Gunther, a fitting end to one of the most accomplished careers of all time and a proper hand-off to the next generation.

Gunther was vicious and relentless. Each time he thought he had Cena down and out, Cena dragged himself to his feet, fighting off sleeper-holds left and right like the fighting champion he is. Fans chanted even “Super Cena” as the 17-time world champ did his best Rocky Balboa impression, refusing to stay down for the count and inspiring hope even in the most bleak of circumstances.

Cena did everything to carry the weight of his final match, leading the audience in unison with moves like his Five Knuckle Shuffle and a strong, arena-wide “You can’t see me!” He refused to give in until his body simply couldn’t endure any more. And as fans chanted “Don’t give up,” Cena finally did.