John Cena details retirement tour, says WrestleMania isn’t final stop

John Cena shocked the wrestling world at Money in the Bank by announcing he will retire in 2025. During the post-show press conference, he shared details about his upcoming farewell tour, stating that WrestleMania won’t be the end of his journey.

“It’s not gonna end at WrestleMania,” said Cena. “WrestleMania will be my last WrestleMania. But hopefully, if everything goes according to plan, we’re going straight through from January to December.”

Cena said his retirement tour is tentatively scheduled for 30-40 dates as he juggles other ventures outside the ring. With this limited schedule, the question of his final opponents naturally arose. Cena clarified that he isn’t in a position to choose his opponents but eagerly anticipates facing whoever he is matched with.

Currently tied with Ric Flair as a 16-time world champion, Cena has the potential to surpass this record with another world title win. Reflecting on this possibility, Cena acknowledged his recent losing streak, saying, “I would love that opportunity, but those opportunities are earned. And given my past track record, I’ve got some work to do.”

Cena then teased that earning such an opportunity could come by winning the Royal Rumble or Elimination Chamber match. He also mentioned next year’s Money in the Bank ladder match, using it as a reminder that he plans on wrestling after WrestleMania, so a final world title victory and championship run could come later in 2025.

Regarding why next year will be his last, Cena said he approached WWE with a retirement plan. The company then initiated talks, recognizing that with its current renaissance and upcoming move to Netflix, now was the ideal time to pursue Cena’s plan.

“That really warmed my heart that not only did my thought resonate of let’s do something that we can bring all of us together, all of us can bond and have excitement,” said Cena. “I’m flattered to be a part of something like this.”

During the press conference, Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque was asked about Cena’s potential induction into the WWE Hall of Fame next year. Levesque kept the option open, emphasizing it’s Cena’s decision based on when it’s right for him and when it fits into his schedule. Regardless of any future accolades, Cena remains focused on entertaining fans and leaving a lasting impact and plans on being a part of WWE after his days as an in-ring performer are finished.

“I look forward to ending my participation in the ring in the best way that I possibly can, and being a member of the extended WWE family for quite some time to come.”