On Saturday December 13, John Cena is ready to officially retire from skilled wrestling when he competes in his final match at Saturday Night’s Fundamental Event. Despite Cena constantly stating that it could be a disservice to fans if he were to wrestle into next yr, many still imagine that the 17-time World Champion won’t be retiring just yet, and that there is creative plans for him to stay around until WrestleMania 42. With Cena’s retirement match just two months away, speculation about him competing well into 2026 has picked up as of late, leading the 48-year-old to make an announcement on social media to reaffirm everyone that he shall be hanging up his boots at the top of the yr.
“Despite any speculation or rumors, on July 6, 2024 I announced I’d retire from WWE in ring participation. I’m removed from perfect but strive to be an individual whose word has value. 12/13/25 shall be my final match. I’m beyond grateful for each moment WWE has given me. I’m excited for 12/13 & look ahead to seeing all of you one last time.”
Despite any speculation or rumors, on July 6, 2024 I announced I’d retire from WWE in ring participation. I’m removed from perfect but strive to be an individual whose word has value. 12/13/25 shall be my final match. I’m beyond grateful for each moment WWE has given me. I’m… https://t.co/TnUPfuEfzx
— John Cena (@JohnCena) October 17, 2025
Earlier this month, it was reported that Cena’s final opponent in December shall be decided by a tournament that can happen across “WWE Raw” and “WWE SmackDown,” with former World Heavyweight Champion GUNTHER being the rumored star to win the competition. That said, The Rock’s involvement in Cena’s heel turn this past March is considered one of the fundamental reasons that fans imagine that the “Never Seen 17” won’t be retiring this winter, with the idea that “The Great One” would return before the top of the yr to establish a storyline leading into WrestleMania season.