John Cena shocked the wrestling world Money in the bank by announcing that he will retire in 2025. During the press conference after the show, he shared details about his upcoming farewell tour and stated that WrestleMania will not be the end of his journey.
“It’s not going to end at WrestleMania,” Cena said. “WrestleMania will be my last WrestleMania. But hopefully, if everything goes according to plan, we’ll go from January straight into December.”
Cena said his retirement tour is tentatively scheduled for 30-40 dates, while he juggles other adventures outside the ring. With this limited schedule, the question of his final opponents naturally arose. Cena clarified that he is not in a position to choose his opponents, but he is eagerly looking forward to facing whoever he is matched against.
Cena is currently tied with Ric Flair as the 16-time world champion and has the potential to break that record with another world title. Looking back on the possibility, Cena acknowledged his recent losing streak, saying, “I would love that opportunity, but those opportunities are earned. And given my past record, I still have some work to do.”
Cena then hinted that he could get such a chance by winning the Royal Rumble or Elimination Chamber match. He also mentioned next year’s Money in the Bank ladder match, using it as a reminder that he plans to wrestle after WrestleMania, so a final world title win and championship run could come later in 2025.
As for why next year will be his last, Cena said he approached WWE with a retirement plan. The company subsequently entered into discussions, acknowledging that with his current renaissance and upcoming move to Netflix, now was the ideal time to pursue Cena’s plan.
“That really warmed my heart, that not only did it resonate with my thought of let’s do something that brings us all together, we can all bond and experience excitement,” Cena said. “I’m flattered to be a part of something like that.”
During the press conference, Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque was asked about Cena’s potential induction into the WWE Hall of Fame next year. Levesque kept the option open, emphasizing that it’s Cena’s decision based on when it’s right for him and when it fits into his schedule. Regardless of future accolades, Cena remains focused on entertaining fans and leaving a lasting impact and plans to be a part of WWE after his days as an in-ring performer are over.
“I look forward to concluding my involvement in the ring in the best possible way and being a part of the extended WWE family for a long time to come.”