John Cena’s final bell has rung. The WWE icon officially retired from in-ring competition following a headline bout at Saturday Night’s Main Event XLII in Washington, D.C., where he suffered a submission loss to rising star Gunther. In a career that spanned over 24 years, this marked the first time Cena tapped out in more than two decades — a symbolic passing of the torch and a rare vulnerability for one of WWE’s most protected legends.
The match was part of a farewell tour Cena had been building throughout 2025, culminating in this emotionally charged final appearance. Gunther, the Austrian powerhouse and current Intercontinental Champion, secured his place in wrestling lore by forcing the 17-time world champion to submit, ending an era in dramatic fashion.
After the final bell, Cena left his wristbands and shoes in the center of the ring — a poignant nod to wrestling traditions — and saluted the crowd one last time. The emotional farewell was not without controversy. Fans at the Capital One Arena reacted with a mix of appreciation and outrage, some booing the result and questioning the decision to have Cena lose by submission. Security was briefly tightened as tensions flared, although no incidents occurred.
Despite the polarizing response, the wrestling world poured out respect and gratitude. Fellow superstars and industry veterans acknowledged Cena’s unmatched contributions: from his early days as the “Doctor of Thuganomics” to his run as the face of the company through some of its most commercially successful years.
John Cena leaves behind a legacy of resilience, charisma, and a deep connection with audiences. Whether loved or loathed in the ring, his ability to move the crowd was unparalleled. Now, with his boots left behind, the spotlight shifts — but the legacy remains.