Emotional End of an Era: John Cena Posts Wordless WWE Farewell on Instagram After Retirement Match
John Cena retirement, WWE farewell, Gunther match, Cena Instagram post, WWE legend retires—these trending topics captured the wrestling world’s attention as the 17-time world champion bid a silent goodbye following his final in-ring appearance.
On December 14, 2025, just hours after tapping out to Gunther in the main event of WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event, John Cena shared a poignant, caption-less photo on Instagram. The image showed his signature gray Athletic Propulsion Labs sneakers, wristbands, and custom armband emblazoned with “The Last Time Is Now” neatly placed in the center of the empty ring—a symbolic gesture echoing his dramatic removal of the gear post-match.
The post quickly garnered hundreds of thousands of likes and emotional responses from fans, celebrities, and WWE stars alike. Charlotte Flair, the WWE Women’s Champion, replied with a simple salute emoji. Even corporate partner Honda joined in with a saluting tribute. Fans flooded the comments with messages like “Thank you, Cena” and heartfelt reflections on his 23-year career.
Cena’s farewell match on December 13 in Washington, D.C., was a brutal 25-minute war against “The Ring General” Gunther. Despite landing several Attitude Adjustments and rallying the crowd, the 48-year-old ultimately submitted to Gunther’s sleeper hold—his first tap-out in over two decades. Cena smiled through the pain, signaling peace with his decision.
Immediately after, the entire WWE roster, including Cody Rhodes, CM Punk, and executives like Triple H, surrounded the ring for a standing ovation. A touching video package highlighted Cena’s journey from his 2002 debut as “The Prototype” to becoming WWE’s face during the Ruthless Aggression and PG eras. Cena then removed his gear, leaving it behind as a tradition seen in retirements past.
Tributes poured in from across the industry. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson called Cena a “good human being” whose career was “historic.” Other stars, including Roman Reigns, Brock Lesnar, and even AEW’s Chris Jericho and Adam “Edge” Copeland, shared respects. Gunther himself expressed pride in being Cena’s final opponent, calling him “the Greatest of All Time.”
Cena announced his 2025 retirement plans back at Money in the Bank 2024, embarking on a year-long farewell tour that included a record 17th world title win at WrestleMania, a shocking heel turn, and high-profile matches. He emphasized wanting to “give back” by putting over younger talent like Gunther.
For U.S. fans, Cena’s retirement hits close to home. As WWE’s biggest star during its mainstream boom in the 2000s and 2010s, he inspired a generation with his “Hustle, Loyalty, Respect” mantra and record-breaking Make-A-Wish grants (over 650). His Hollywood transition—starring in blockbusters like Peacemaker and Fast & Furious—has made him a crossover icon, boosting WWE’s visibility in entertainment. Economically, his absence may shift merchandise and viewership dynamics, but his ambassador role ensures ongoing influence.
Wrestling experts praise the booking: passing the torch to Gunther elevates the next era while honoring Cena’s legacy without overshadowing emerging stars. Fans note the event set attendance records at Capital One Arena, underscoring his drawing power.
John Cena retirement, WWE farewell, Gunther match, Cena Instagram post, WWE legend retires—these moments mark the close of a defining chapter, with Cena transitioning to full-time acting and WWE mentorship.
By Mark Smith
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