John Cena Retirement: WWE Legend Explains The Reason Behind Leaving The Sport After Spending Two Decades

After more than two decades at the pinnacle of sports entertainment, John Cena confirmed that his time in the WWE ring is coming to a close. The 17-time world champion is not stepping away due to waning passion or diminished performance, but rather for a deeply selfless reason i.e to make space for the next generation of WWE superstars.

Why is John Cena retiring?

Cena has been candid about his decision, stating that the WWE roster is brimming with young, hungry talent ready for the spotlight.

Speaking on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon YouTube Channel, Cena said, "I remember being a young 20-something in Kentucky, wrestling in front of 20 people every night, crossing my fingers and hoping to get a call to come up to WWE television. I should be as graceful exiting the business as I was excited to enter."

""It’s a battle of, ‘How long do I fight those red flags before it could be counterproductive?’ I still look good, I feel good, I still feel like I can perform at WWE level, but I also think it’s time for me to step aside and let the young talent step forward. I would hate to, just because I’m hanging around too long, take a dream away from a kid like me and maybe not have the opportunity to have someone have an impact on the business," he added.

John Cena says he’s retiring from WWE because he doesn’t want to take spots from younger talent.

“I think if I hang around any longer than now, I’m just taking time away from the young guys to make an impact. It’s time.”

GOAT FOR A REASON ♥️ pic.twitter.com/lKycKrczOC

— EliteRockerz 𝕏 (@EliteClubS0B) August 14, 2025

John Cena’s Last WWE Appearance Set for December 2025

Cena’s official retirement match is scheduled for December 13, 2025, at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts, his home state. This match will cap off his farewell tour, which he pitched to WWE executives earlier this year. It will serve both as a celebration of his legendary legacy and as an opportunity for fans to say their goodbyes.

Allow things to take the time they take.

— John Cena (@JohnCena) August 11, 2025

The past year has been filled with memorable moments, including an unexpected heel turn at WrestleMania 41 and touching interviews in which Cena reassured fans that this truly marks the final chapter of his illustrious career.