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Xtra Time Web Desk: In a surprising and emotional announcement, WWE legend John Cena, the 16-time champion and future Hall of Famer, revealed that 2025 would be his final year in professional wrestling. The announcement came during a special appearance at the Money in the Bank Pay Per View event in Canada.

Cena, 47, addressed the WWE Universe, stating, "Tonight, I am officially announcing my retirement from the WWE." The heartfelt promo marked the beginning of his farewell tour, which will see him participate in key events including the first RAW episode of the year on Netflix, the Royal Rumble in February, the Elimination Chamber in March, and culminating in his final match at WrestleMania 41 in Las Vegas.

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WWE Head of Creative Paul 'Triple H' Levesque shared a touching backstage video of him and Cena hugging, captioned, "The Greatest of All Time." Cena later clarified that WrestleMania 41 would not be his last match, planning to appear in 30-40 events before his final goodbye. After his last in-ring appearance, Cena will retire his iconic jorts and transition to making appearances in suits.

BREAKING: @JohnCena announces retirement from in-ring competition, stating that #WrestleMania 41 in Las Vegas will be his last. pic.twitter.com/TB6U3QtO1h

— WWE (@WWE) July 7, 2024

Cena's retirement marks the end of an era, concluding a storied 23-year career with WWE's main roster. During his tenure, he captured the WWE Championship 13 times and the World Heavyweight Title three times, tying with Ric Flair for the most top title wins in WWE history. Since transitioning to a part-time role in 2018, Cena has been instrumental in 'putting talent over,' losing matches to elevate younger wrestlers. His last match was a loss to Solo Sikoa at Crown Jewel 2023.

Despite headlining five WrestleManias, Cena's recent years were marked by sporadic appearances and fewer victories. His last WrestleMania win was in 2017, teaming with former fiancée Nikki Bella against The Miz and Maryse. Since then, he has faced notable defeats, including a loss to the late Bray Wyatt at WrestleMania 36 and to Austin Theory at WrestleMania 39.

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John Cena began his WWE journey in 2001, debuting on the main roster in 2002 with a memorable match against Kurt Angle. Adopting the persona of The Doctor of Thuganomics, Cena's freestyle raps and rebellious attitude made him a fan favorite. His first singles title, the US Championship, came at WrestleMania 20, followed by his first WWE Title at WrestleMania 21.

Cena has faced and triumphed over many of WWE's biggest stars, including Triple H, Shawn Michaels, The Undertaker, Brock Lesnar, and Randy Orton. His iconic matches include the 'Once in a Lifetime' showdown with Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson at WrestleMania 28, which they reprised the following year.