Saturday, December 13, 2025 marked the end of an era. For many it was a night of joy, retrospective, entertainment and hope. The World Wrestling Entertainment held Saturday Night’s Main Event from the nation’s capital. The evening, that had an 18 month build up, was surrounded by the sendoff to the GOAT, John Cena. Cena’s final match featured the legend taking on “The Ring General” Gunther. In the end it was Gunther putting away the icon via submission. That’s right, Cena, who preached “Never Give Up” for over two decades, ended his career by tapping out. The shocking moment was eclipsed by the gesture of most of the wrestlers in the locker room and management coming out to the ring and giving Cena the respect he deserves. Champions CM Punk and Cody Rhodes gave their titles to Cena and he hoisted the titles in one last celebration. This gesture hit hard for me because in 2006 Cena and Bautista sent the late Hulk Hogan off with the same celebration. (I am man enough to admit that I cried at this moment). A video package was presented with highlights of Cena’s illustrious career shortly after. Following the touching and moving tribute to Cena, he thanked the crowd and his peers. Before Cena left the ring, he removed his shoes, socks, head band and wrist bands and left them in the center of the ring. This is the traditional final farewell message to the world that the individual has wrestled their final match. (Cue the ugly cry.)
I had the privilege of witnessing Cena’s entire career. In June 2002 Cena made his unforgettable debut when he answered the challenge from future Hall of Famer and 1996 Olympic Gold Medalist, Kurt Angle on an episode of Smackdown! Angle called out anyone from the locker room to go out and wrestle. Out came this guy. No music, real crowd reaction. Cena walked into the ring in just plain red and black tights. Angle asked him what his name was. Cena took a breath and said “I’m John Cena”. Angle then asked him what quality he possessed that made him think he could go the distance with him. Cena took the mic and answered “Ruthless aggression” and slapped Angle across the face. The match began and as it did the crowd was behind the youngster. Cena and Angle wrestled for about 20 minutes and it was Angle who came away with the victory. Following commercial break Cena was shown in the locker room getting congratulated and a welcoming into the WWE. The ultimate “welcome” came from then World Champion The Undertaker. He asked “What’s your name kid?” Cena replied “John Cena”; Undertaker said “nice work kid” and the rest is history.
Over the years Cena racked up a record setting 17 World Heavyweight Championships, beating the old record of 16 by “The Nature Boy” Ric Flair. Although this feat may never be broken Cena has said that his proudest record is not what he achieved inside the ring, but rather out of it.
John Cena holds the record for most wishes granted through Make-A-Wish. Over the years Cena has granted an unprecedented 650 wishes for children. It was well documented that Cena never rushed his visits with any of the kids, never complained about going, never once did he show up in a bad mood. This is according to ALL 650 (and counting) parents who witnessed their child’s dream come true.
Cena is the GOAT of professional wrestling. His achievements will live on forever. Thank you, Cena, for the memories. My oldest son was Cena for Halloween years ago and my youngest son walks around and acts like him on a daily basis. Long live the Doctor of Thug-a-nomics, The leader of the C-Nation, the Chain Gang, John Cena. We Can See you now.
Dennis D. Cruz is a staff reporter for The Oakdale Leader, The Riverbank News and The Escalon Times. He may be reached at drcruz@oakdaleleader.com or by calling 209-847-3021.
