John Cena Announces Retirement From WWE

John Cena is turning over a new leaf. 

In fact, the famed wrestler-turned-actor just announced he will be retiring from World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) after the 2025 season. 

“Tonight, I officially announce my retirement from the WWE,” John, who wore a red T-shirt adorned with the phrase “The Last Time is Now,” explained during a July 6 appearance at Money in the Bank 2024 in Toronto, Canada. “Along with history-making firsts, we are going to build so many unforgettable lasts. The 2025 Royal Rumble will be my last. The 2025 Elimination Chamber will be my last. And I’m here tonight to announce that in Las Vegas WrestleMania 2025 will be the last WrestleMania I compete in.”

The 47-year-old went on to thank Canadian WWE fans for sticking by the organization through its ebbs and flows, and noted that his retirement coincides with the historic move of WWE’s Monday Night RAW program to Netflix. 

“That is history,” the Ricky Stanicky star added. “That is a first, and I will be there.”

And while John—who also went by his rapper moniker Doctor of Thuganomics in the WWE ring—has operated in a part time capacity with the WWE since 2018, he has earned 16 world titles since his debut with the program in 2001. 

After announcing his next career move to the crowd at Money in the Bank, the Blockers star gave more insight into his decision to leave after over 20 years in the business. 

“WWE is my home and I love it, just because I physically feel I’m at my end doesn’t mean I need to distance myself from something I love,” he explained at a press conference following the event. “I look forward to ending my participation in the ring in the best way that I can, and being a member of the WWE extended family for quite some time."

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