Wrestling legend John Cena has announced his definitive retirement for 2025. Each match is a step closer to the end of an iconic career that has marked several generations of fans.
This announcement marks the end of a career that began more than two decades ago, with Cena ready to hang up his boots on December 13. Fans will have the opportunity to witness the last chapters of this legend at events such as WWE’s Wrestlepalooza in Indianapolis on September 20.
Let’s review the different facets that have defined his career.
The Protagonist: Cena’s Beginnings
In 2001, WWE signed John Cena, a former college American football player and aspiring bodybuilder. In his early days, Cena was introduced as “The Prototype”.With a different look than the one that made him famous, Cena sported a shaved haircut and prominent biceps. “The Prototype” won the OVW championship in February 2002, which earned him his promotion to the main roster of the WWE.
Ruthless Aggression: The WWE Debut
In June 2002, on an episode of “SmackDown”, Cena made his WWE debut. Kurt Angle, at that moment, issued an open challenge. Cena, confidently, responded.Cena’s response, with relentless aggression, marked the beginning of a new star.
The Doctor of Thuganomics: Rap and Change
After a while, Cena adopted a new persona: a white rapper from Boston. With phrases like “Word Life” and his entrance theme “Basic Thuganomics”, Cena became an antagonist character.Despite being a villain, his charisma won him the support of the public. At Survivor Series 2003, Cena already had the crowd on his side, marking the beginning of his rise.
The Reign of the “Spinner Belt” and the PG Era
At WrestleMania XX in 2004, Cena won his first major title in WWE. The customization of the belt, with a “spinner” design, became a symbol of his success.
The transition to WWE’s “PG” era in 2008 transformed Cena’s image into a hero for children. Although this generated criticism, Cena remained the face of the company, preaching “Hustle, Loyalty and Respect”.
Nexus and the Confrontation with The Rock
In 2010, the arrival of Nexus marked a disruptive moment. Cena became the group’s main target.In 2011, The Rock returned to the WWE, and began a rivalry with Cena that culminated at WrestleMania XXVIII, with the match promoted as “Once in a Lifetime”.At WrestleMania 29, Cena won the rematch and the WWE title.
The United States Open Challenge and Flair’s Record
Cena initiated the “John Cena U.S. Open Challenge”, offering exciting weekly matches. In 2017, Cena tied Ric Flair’s record of 16 world championships.This achievement solidified his status as a wrestling legend.
From Hollywood to the Comeback: The Farewell Tour
After tying Flair’s record, Cena focused on his acting career, participating in movies and series. In 2020, he starred in a cinematic match against “The Fiend” Bray Wyatt.
In July 2024, Cena announced his retirement for the end of 2025.
The Heel Turn, the Reunion with Rhodes, and the Farewell
In Elimination Chamber, Cena made a surprising heel turn, allying with The Rock and Travis Scott.This change was brief, and at SummerSlam, Cena faced Cody Rhodes, who defeated him. Cena, regretful, apologized to the fans, marking his return as “John Cena” and ending his brief stint as a villain.With the retirement tour underway, Cena prepares for his final matches, leaving an indelible legacy in the history of wrestling.
