John Cena's Final Match: A Legacy Beyond the Ring

Sat Dec 13 2025 22:05:10 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As John Cena prepares for his last WWE match, we reflect on his illustrious career, contributions to the wrestling world, and impact on the lives of countless fans through charity work and beyond.

John Cena, one of wrestling's biggest stars, is set to retire after a career spanning 8,570 days, during which he won 17 world titles and became a beloved figure not just in the ring but also through his charitable work with Make-A-Wish. His final match promises to be a significant moment, reflecting his evolution and enduring influence in professional wrestling.

John Cena's Final Match: A Legacy Beyond the Ring

The Last Time Is Now. It's the name given to the tournament in which 16 wrestling giants have been competing to be the one opponent in John Cena's final fight before retirement.

And that final fight is now - Saturday night - in Washington DC, bringing the curtain down on an illustrious career that has seen the American become one of wrestling's biggest and most bankable stars.

In the 8,570 days since his debut, Cena has clinched 17 world titles and coined the iconic You Can't See Me catchphrase - but the 48-year-old's impact goes far beyond that.

If you were to pose the question who is John Cena?, depending on who you ask, the answers might vary from legendary WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) superstar, to successful film actor, while some will say he's Mr Make-A-Wish.

Since his 2002 debut, there's been an evolution in his own wrestling character - transitioning from ruthless aggression rookie to a Doctor of Thuganomics rapper, and finally to a heroic character known for a Never Give Up attitude.

Despite criticism from some fans of his in-ring ability, there's no doubt that he's an exceptional wrestling talent, says Brandon Thurston, editor of the wrestling website Wrestlenomics.

Cena's career is punctuated by his transition into a marketable face of WWE, particularly during the family-friendly PG era, where he thrived and became the most significant economic draw.

Beyond wrestling, Cena's charisma and positive persona have made him a beloved figure, as evidenced by his association with Make-A-Wish, where he holds the Guinness World Record for most wishes granted.

As he sets to face Gunther in his last match, fans look forward to a performance that encapsulates the incredible journey of John Cena, marking the end of an era while celebrating his ongoing legacy.

How to Watch John Cena's Last Match:

Start time: WWE Saturday Night's Main Event, 01:00 GMT, Sun 14 Dec
Where to watch: In the UK, on WWE's official YouTube channel; internationally on Netflix and Peacock in the US.