Washington, D.C. — WWE legend John Cena officially closed the chapter on his in-ring career Saturday night at Saturday Night’s Main Event inside D.C.’s Capital One Arena, where over 19,000 fans gathered to witness his long-awaited retirement match.
Cena faced off against Austrian powerhouse Gunther, known to fans as “The Ring General,” in a grueling 24-minute showdown that ended with the 16-time world champion tapping out — marking the final moment of his two-decade career inside the squared circle.
Despite the loss, fans inside the packed arena — and across the wrestling world — were united in emotion, cheering Cena’s name long after the final bell.
“It really sucked that John Cena lost,” said Winston, who traveled from California for the event. “We lost a great legend today. It won’t be the same and there won’t be another John Cena.”
“Win or lose, it didn’t matter”
Many fans had flown in from around the country to see the WWE icon perform one last time. Antonio, also from California, said he couldn’t miss the opportunity.
“I did not think I would ever see Cena tap out,” he said. “John Cena’s motto was always never give up. But it was worth the trip. Win or lose, it didn’t matter. He’s still the best.”
Cena, now 48, has long been regarded as one of professional wrestling’s most influential figures, credited with bridging WWE’s eras of larger-than-life characters and modern athletic storytelling. His final match — filled with trademark intensity, chants of “Let’s go Cena!” and nostalgic moments — capped off a career spanning more than 20 years.
Passing the Torch
While the night was bittersweet for many, others saw the match as symbolic of wrestling’s next chapter.
“Tonight didn’t go the way that people wanted, but ‘The Ring General’ did what was necessary,” said Earl B. Bryant, a longtime WWE fan. “Gunther is the future of wrestling.”
Patrick, who traveled from Florida, said the event felt like the perfect send-off.
“It was a great match,” he shared. “I kind of figured it would end like that, but the rest of the card was amazing. Cena gave us everything.”
Even international fans joined the chorus of praise. Blake, who came from Nova Scotia, Canada, called the match “an emotional farewell.”
“The ending could have been a lot better,” he admitted. “But it was probably his idea to tap out, honestly. Wonderful career — he’s the GOAT for a reason.”
A Legacy Cemented
Cena’s final bow in the ring — saluting the roaring crowd before walking up the ramp — brought tears to many fans in attendance. The WWE star, who has successfully transitioned into acting and philanthropy, has previously said he will “always be part of the WWE family,” though Saturday marked the end of his full-time wrestling career.
While Cena didn’t deliver a farewell speech after the match, his message to fans over the years has been clear — “Never give up.”
And for those in the arena on Saturday night, that phrase resonated more than ever.
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