John Cena Explains His Decision to Retire from WWE

John Cena gave his thoughts on why he planned this extended farewell tour for his retirement from WWE.

John Cena Explains His Decision to Retire from WWE

John Cena (via WWE)

John Cena announced his retirement from WWE last year at Money in the Bank. The decision was met with mixed emotions—fans appreciated his farewell tour planned for the following year, but many also felt a sense of loss. Recently, the Undisputed WWE Champion shared his thoughts on the choice to step away from professional wrestling.

Speaking with Stephanie McMahon on Stephanie’s Place, Cena revealed that his body has taken a significant toll over the years. The Cenation Leader admitted that he’s no longer able to perform at his peak in the gym, which is impacting his abilities inside the WWE ring. He explained that his body feels numb, and he wants to conclude his career on a positive note before things deteriorate further.

It’s a very similar course to WWE. My skills are on regress. If I continue at a full-time physical capability or involvement, I’m not going to run right. My partner’s not gonna run right, and our relationship isn’t gonna run right. Sorry, kid, it’s time to close this chapter.

John Cena via Stephanie’s Place

However, the 17-time World Champion added that he wishes he were 18 and could continue wrestling forever, as WWE will always be his true home. For now, though, he wants to focus on building a good life with his wife, feeling more at home in her arms than in the ring. That realization inspired him last year to plan a grand farewell tour before stepping away for good.

In previous interviews, Cena has stated that nothing will bring him back to professional wrestling after December 2025. He believes this will be the last time fans see him in his iconic t-shirt and shorts, marking the end of an era in WWE. With that, the Hollywood star continues his farewell tour, determined to give fans one final run as a full-time wrestler.

Big update on John Cena’s status for Night of Champions 2025

Night of Champions is set to take place in Saudi Arabia, making it a major event for WWE. Saudi Arabian pay-per-views are typically known for showcasing high-profile matches and top-tier talent. With John Cena currently on his farewell tour, fans have wondered whether he will appear at Night of Champions or not.

John Cena
John Cena [via- WWE]

WWE has officially confirmed The Cenation Leader’s return to Saudi Arabia for Night of Champions. In a social media post, the company unveiled a striking gold poster featuring the Hollywood star holding the Undisputed WWE Championship. Additionally, the event’s tagline is none other than Cena’s iconic catchphrase, “The Last Time Is Now.”

Moreover, this will mark John Cena’s third appearance at a Saudi Arabia Premium Live Event. He previously faced Triple H at the Greatest Royal Rumble in 2018 and took on Solo Sikoa at Crown Jewel in 2023. With Night of Champions approaching next month, it will be interesting to see who steps up as The Franchise Player’s opponent for this high-stakes event.

John Cena revealed how he met his wife, Shay Shariatzadeh

John Cena is married to Shay Shariatzadeh. The couple tied the knot in a private ceremony in Tampa, Florida, in October 2020, followed by a second celebration in Vancouver in July 2022. Cena’s love life has long been a topic of interest among fans, and recently, he opened up about their relationship, offering insight into their story.

John Cena and Shay Shariatzadeh
John Cena and Shay Shariatzadeh (via PEOPLE)

Speaking with Stephanie McMahon on Stephanie’s Place, the Undisputed WWE Champion shared the story of how he met his wife, Shay Shariatzadeh. Cena recalled visiting a bar in Vancouver to cheer for the New England Patriots with his friends. While they were caught up in the excitement of the game, he suddenly locked eyes with Shay.

I got to watch the game, in walks a group of four, and I can’t take my eyes off of Shay (His wife). They’re in the booth right across from us. So I’m watching their TV, they’re watching mine, and I’m just doing this (Stare). And my team is winning, and I don’t give a f**k. And I don’t have the bravery to break the ice.

John Cena via Stephanie’s Place

In that moment, he said, everything else faded. Cena admitted the lack of bravery at that moment. Moreover, it was his future wife’s friend who helped him talk to her and eventually link the couple.

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