John Cena brought down the curtain on his in‑ring WWE career on Dec. 13, 2025, losing by submission to Gunther at Saturday Night’s Main Event at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. The 48‑year‑old, who completed a year‑long farewell tour after announcing his retirement plans in July 2024, was forced to tap out in a match that ran nearly a quarter‑hour and drew a mixed, emotional reaction from the announced crowd of about 19,232. Cena left his shoes and wristbands in the ring and received a tribute from current and past WWE stars; champions Cody Rhodes and CM Punk briefly draped their belts over his shoulders. The finish — a rare submission against Cena and the first time in roughly two decades he conceded that way — elevated Gunther while triggering loud boos and expletive chants aimed at WWE creative and chief content officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque. Videos showed fans confronting and jeering Gunther as he left the venue; extra security reportedly escorted him to his bus. Cena, a 17‑time world champion and crossover movie star, signalled an end to a storied ring career while leaving open non‑wrestling roles such as mentoring.