Cena Reflects on ‘Peaceful’ Retirement Match, Emotional Farewell

TAMPA, FL – John Cena, a 16-time WWE Champion and one of professional wrestling’s most recognizable figures, has spoken publicly for the first time about his recent in-ring retirement match against Gunther at Saturday Night’s Main Event on December 13th. In a candid conversation with Cody Rhodes on his “What Do You Want To Talk About?” podcast, Cena detailed the emotional weight of the bout and his deliberate approach to crafting a fitting end to his storied career. The match, which saw Cena tap out to Gunther, has sparked debate among fans, but Cena insists the outcome was precisely what he envisioned – a peaceful and conclusive farewell.

The match itself took place under unusual circumstances. According to Cena, venue staff had to add side ramps to accommodate the overwhelming demand for tickets, creating a near-unsafe environment for his entrance. This palpable energy, combined with the crowd’s fervent support for him and their animosity towards his opponent, contributed to a uniquely powerful atmosphere. “They hate the guy I’m working with. They universally cheer me, that is f—— rare,” Cena recounted, highlighting the unusual dynamic of the match. He emphasized his pre-match communication with fans, preparing them for the possibility of retirement and seeking their collective closure.

A Calculated Conclusion: The Significance of the Tap-Out

The controversial finish – a submission loss – has been a focal point of discussion. Many fans expected Cena to go out with a victory, but Cena explained the tap-out was a carefully considered decision, mirroring the natural progression of life and loss. He drew parallels to the way people often struggle and fight to say goodbye to loved ones, extending the moment to connect with everyone who had been meaningful in his life. “As I essentially take my last breath, I have struggled… All of us have been through it,” he said. “They struggle, they struggle, they struggle, they hang on just long enough to make sure to say goodbye to everybody that’s been meaningful in their lives.”

This wasn’t simply about losing a match; it was about crafting a narrative. Cena described the feeling as a “peaceful” passing, akin to a well-written obituary. He pointed to the message on the bottom of his t-shirt – “I gave everything, thank you for everything” – as encapsulating the sentiment of the moment. The deliberate nature of the finish underscores Cena’s understanding of WWE’s storytelling and his commitment to delivering a resonant experience for the audience. This approach is a hallmark of his career, consistently prioritizing the emotional connection with fans over purely athletic outcomes.

Beyond the Ring: Cena’s Legacy and the Evolving WWE Landscape

Cena’s retirement marks the end of an era in professional wrestling. He debuted with WWE in 1999 and quickly rose to prominence, becoming the face of the company during the “Ruthless Aggression” and “PG” eras. His impact extends beyond championships and pay-per-view appearances; he’s become a cultural icon, known for his philanthropic work with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, granting over 650 wishes – more than any other celebrity.

The WWE landscape is now shifting, with younger stars like Cody Rhodes, Roman Reigns, and Bianca Belair taking center stage. Rhodes, in particular, represents a continuation of Cena’s commitment to storytelling and connecting with the audience. The conversation with Rhodes on the podcast itself is indicative of this passing of the torch, a veteran sharing insights with a rising star. According to Statista, WWE’s revenue reached $1.29 billion in 2023, demonstrating the continued financial health and global appeal of the sport, even as its key figures evolve.

Cena’s final match also highlights a broader trend in professional wrestling: the increasing emphasis on narrative and emotional investment. While athleticism remains crucial, the ability to connect with the audience on a personal level is becoming increasingly important. Gunther, a formidable competitor known for his brutal in-ring style, provided the perfect foil for Cena’s farewell, allowing the veteran to showcase his storytelling prowess one last time. The match drew an estimated 812,000 viewers on USA Network, according to Wrestling Inc, demonstrating continued strong viewership for WWE’s weekly programming.

The full interview with Cody Rhodes can be viewed here:

Cena’s retirement isn’t simply the end of a career; it’s a carefully orchestrated moment of closure, a testament to his understanding of the wrestling business and his deep connection with the fans. It’s a reminder that in professional wrestling, as in life, the story is often more important than the win.