John Cena Announces Retirement From Wrestling

American actor and wrestler John Cena has announced his retirement from World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) competitions.

Cena made the surprise announcement to fans during an appearance at the WWE Money in the Bank event in Canada.

The 47-year-old, who got into comedy 18 years ago, said his final in-ring appearance would be in 2025 as part of a farewell tour.

Often considered one of the greatest professional wrestlers of all time, Cena has achieved world champion status 16 times since joining WWE in 2001.

“Tonight I officially announce my retirement from WWE,” he told Toronto fans, who reacted with surprise and then chanted “thank you Cena.”

“What an incredible gesture of kindness,” he replied.

Wearing a T-shirt emblazoned with the words “The Last Time is Now” and his famous “jorts” (denim shorts), John Cena thanked WWE fans for “letting me play in the house that you built for so many years.”

At a later press conference, he expressed his intention to remain a member of the WWE family in some capacity, even though he felt “at the end of his rope” physically.

Cena made his acting debut in 2006 with the film “The Marine” and has since landed roles in several big-budget films, including “The Suicide Squad,” “Fast & Furious 9” and “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.”

Since 2018, Cena has performed part-time in WWE while his acting career takes off.

He made headlines this year when he appeared naked, except for a strategically placed envelope, during an Oscars sketch.

Cena is also the most requested celebrity by children through Make-A-Wish, and holds the Guinness World Record for the most wishes granted to children with critical illnesses.