John Cena’s storied WWE career came to a powerful close on December 13, 2025, inside the Capital One Arena. The wrestling legend stepped into the ring for the final time, squaring off against Gunther in a gripping contest that kept fans on edge. After nearly 25 minutes of fierce back-and-forth action, Cena tapped out, officially bringing his in-ring journey to an end.
Cena first arrived in WWE in 2001 as The Prototype before briefly competing under his real name and eventually transforming into the fan-favorite “Doctor of Thuganomics.” Over an incredible 24-year run, he captured 17 world championships, headlined six WrestleMania main events, and became one of the most recognizable figures in professional wrestling history.
His farewell run kicked off at the Royal Rumble in January, featured an unexpected heel turn at Elimination Chamber, and saw him reclaim the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania after defeating Cody Rhodes.
The road to his final bout unfolded through a tournament, ending with Gunther applying a sleeper hold that forced Cena to submit. The moment stunned the crowd, with many fans visibly emotional as Cena tapped out for the first time in more than two decades.
In a quiet and touching goodbye, Cena placed his wristbands and boots in the ring, saluted the audience, and walked away without delivering a speech. Fellow WWE stars, including CM Punk and Cody Rhodes, paid tribute by raising their titles in his honor, while Triple H presented a special video celebrating Cena’s legacy.
“This is the end of an era. My time in the ring may be over, but the memories and lessons will last forever,” Cena said.
