WWE legend John Cena officially retired from in-ring competition on Saturday, concluding a storied career that spanned over two decades. In his final match at Saturday Night’s Main Event in the Capital One Arena, Cena faced the “Ring General” Gunther in a highly emotional battle.
In a shocking and historically significant moment, Gunther’s relentless application of a sleeper hold forced “The Champ” to tap out, marking a rare submission loss in Cena’s career. The arena fell into stunned silence before erupting into a massive ovation, chanting “Thank You Cena.”
The match was a brutal affair, featuring Cena’s classic arsenal—the Five-Knuckle Shuffle, the STF, and the Attitude Adjustment (AA)—including a massive Avalanche AA off the top rope and an AA through the announce table. However, Gunther proved too dominant, finally locking in the submission that forced the 17-time World Champion to concede. Cena, with a slight smile despite the loss, immediately rose to salute the crowd.
An Arena Full of Respect
Following the match, the gravity of the moment settled in. The entire WWE locker room, including current champions Cody Rhodes and legends like Kurt Angle and Trish Stratus, emerged to pay their respects to the retiring star.
A career-spanning tribute video played, moving the former champion to tears. The emotional farewell concluded Cena’s promise to the WWE Universe: to step away when he could no longer perform at his best.
Cena ended the night by placing his wrestling boots in the center of the ring—the ultimate symbol of his departure. He then walked up the ramp, paused for a final salute to the fans, and delivered his final words:
“It’s been a pleasure serving you all these years. Thank you.”
Cena leaves behind a monumental legacy that transcends the wrestling ring, defined by his commitment to perseverance, honor, and his record-setting World Championship reigns.