John Cena’s Final WWE Match: Tributes and Farewell
Before his final WWE match, John Cena received tributes from notable figures like Peyton Manning, Tom Brady, and Jelly Roll. Despite their support, Cena did not secure a victory.
Tributes from Sports Icons
In a special segment aired on WWE SmackDown on December 12, sports and entertainment stars honored Cena ahead of his last appearance at the Capital One Arena in Washington D.C. for Saturday Night’s Main Event on December 13. Cena, 48, faced WWE star Gunther but ultimately lost, succumbing to a choke hold.
Before the match, Peyton Manning, 49, humorously advised Cena about retirement, while Eli Manning, 44, praised Cena’s championship wins despite his Patriots fandom.
Messages from Entertainment Figures
Musician Jelly Roll, who participated in a WWE match earlier, called Cena “the legendary, never seen 17,” referencing Cena’s 17th WWE World Championship at WrestleMania 41. Tom Brady, 48, congratulated Cena on his impactful career, wishing him luck in his final match.
Additional tributes came from Tonight Show host Jimmy Fallon and hip-hop icon Snoop Dogg.
Final Bow and Championship Replicas
Post-match, Cena was joined by peers like CM Punk and Triple H for a final bow, receiving WWE championship replicas. Cena had surprised fans with his retirement announcement at the Money in the Bank event in Toronto on July 6, 2024.
Retirement and Future Plans
Despite planning to focus on wrestling in 2025, Cena also filmed two movies, Matchbox and Little Brother. He expressed gratitude to fans, emphasizing the opportunities ahead.
Cena’s retirement tour included participation in the Royal Rumble, a win at the Men’s Elimination Chamber Match, and a WrestleMania 41 victory with help from Travis Scott. However, he lost the championship back to Cody Rhodes at SummerSlam.
Final Match and Career Reflection
Before his last match, Cena reiterated on Jimmy Kimmel Live! his commitment to retiring, explaining his decision to step back due to his age and performance level.
Cena began wrestling in 1999, joining WWE in 2001. He debuted on WWE SmackDown against Kurt Angle in 2002. Known as the “Doctor of Thuganomics,” Cena transitioned into film, starring in major projects like The Suicide Squad and Peacemaker.
In an interview with Tom Rinaldi, Cena shared his reasons for retiring, emphasizing the importance of passing the torch to the next generation of wrestlers.
WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event is available to stream on Peacock.
