John Cena Retires From WWE After Emotional Final Match Against Gunther
By: Israel Adeleke
OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News reports as gathered that the era of John Cena in World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) officially comes to an end as the legendary superstar steps into the ring for the final time, closing his storied wrestling career with a loss.
OTN News further reports as gathered that Cena’s farewell match takes place at the Main Event held at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., where he faces reigning powerhouse Gunther in a bruising contest that delivers both nostalgia and intensity.
The bout sees Cena endure and dish out punishment in equal measure, underscoring the physicality that defines much of his two-decade-long career.
In a moment that electrifies the arena, Cena delivers his iconic “You Can’t See Me” taunt one last time, drawing loud cheers from fans who sense the emotional weight of the occasion.
For many in attendance, the atmosphere feels like the finale of a long-running series, with some supporters even declaring the end of an era so significant it feels like “the WWE is over.”
However, the outcome of the match sparks controversy among fans. Cena’s decision to go out on a loss draws sharp criticism toward WWE Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque, himself a retired wrestling legend. Many supporters argue that Cena deserves a victorious send-off after years of service to the company.
Responding to the backlash, Triple H remains unapologetic, adopting the blunt tone that once defined his in-ring persona. “You do what’s right for this business,” he says. “And I’m gonna do that my entire career, what I believe is right for this business.” He also lightly mocks the crowd’s reaction, adding, “I’m actually mildly disappointed. I thought it would be so much louder.”
ESPN describes Cena’s final defeat as part of a long-standing wrestling tradition, where legendary performers exit on a loss to help elevate new talent. Gunther’s victory is meant to reinforce his dominance and secure his place among WWE’s top stars. Still, many fans reject that narrative, loudly booing Gunther as he exits the arena, a reaction that highlights the deep emotional attachment audiences hold for Cena.
Despite the debate surrounding his final match, there is little disagreement about John Cena’s legacy. Widely regarded as one of WWE’s greatest superstars, Cena’s career is marked by multiple world championships, record-breaking merchandise sales, global popularity, and a reputation as a role model both inside and outside the ring.
OTN News observes that with his wrestling chapter now closed, Cena fully transitions into his acting career, where he has already established himself as a successful Hollywood star. He currently portrays Christopher Smith, also known as Peacemaker, in James Gunn’s DC Universe, and Jakob Toretto in the Fast & Furious franchise. His upcoming projects include Coyote vs Acme, Matchbox, Little Brother, and Fast X Part II.
As the lights dim on his WWE journey, Cena leaves behind a legacy defined by resilience, charisma, and an enduring connection with fans — a reminder of why, for so many years, they truly “couldn’t see” anyone else taking his place.
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