The conclusion of an era is finally here, and it’s sparking a wave of emotions among wrestling fans worldwide. John Cena, after an extraordinary 23-year career in WWE, is stepping away from the ring for good. But here’s where it gets controversial—the question remains: was Cena truly the greatest, or is that title still up for debate?
On December 13, 2025, Cena will step into the squared circle for his final match at Saturday Night’s Main Event, marking the end of a journey filled with unforgettable moments, records, and leadership both inside and outside the ring. This event promises an emotional farewell, especially as the night is dedicated to celebrating his incredible legacy as a 17-time WWE Champion. Fans and fellow wrestlers will pay homage to the countless memories and milestones he achieved along the way.
The night’s climax will feature Cena facing off against ‘The Ring General’ Gunther in what is expected to be a historic main event match—a fitting farewell that caps off a legendary career. Although Cena will be the primary focus, his farewell isn’t just about him. He has expressed a desire to give opportunities to emerging talent from NXT, allowing young, up-and-coming wrestlers to face some of the top names from WWE’s main roster. This blending of experience and fresh talent makes the event even more exciting for fans eager to see the stars of today challenge the future stars.
Stay with USA TODAY Sports for comprehensive highlights and expert analysis on Cena’s final appearance at Saturday Night’s Main Event. From pre-show coverage to every move inside the ring, you won’t miss a moment.
When and where does John Cena’s last match take place?
- The event is scheduled for Saturday, December 13, during Saturday Night’s Main Event.
- It will be streamed live on Peacock, provided viewers have a premium or premium-plus subscription.
- International viewers can catch the action on YouTube in most regions.
- The venue for Cena’s final match is the iconic Capital One Arena in Washington, DC.
Start time and viewing details
- The main event begins at 8 p.m. Eastern Time, with Cena’s final bout projected to close the show.
- The pre-show starts earlier at 6 p.m., accessible through Peacock and WWE’s social channels, including YouTube.
Match Card Overview:
- The high-stakes showdown between John Cena and Gunther.
- A championship clash featuring WWE Champion Cody Rhodes versus NXT Champion Oba Femi.
- A women's match with Bayley against Sol Ruca.
- A tag team match where AJ Styles and Dragon Lee team up against Je'Von Evans and Leon Slater.
And here’s an interesting point— while Cena’s match against Gunther is confirmed as the finale, the exact time it will start remains unknown. The entire event is expected to last until around 10 or 11 p.m. Eastern, so fans should stay tuned for updates during the broadcast.
Special moments and highlights: The opening segment of Cena’s final match will be narrated by WWE’s chief content officer, Paul “Triple H” Levesque, adding a layer of significance to this emotional night.
Reflecting on Cena’s Career: During his farewell tour, Cena achieved some of his greatest milestones—winning the Elimination Chamber, claiming the Undisputed WWE Championship (making him the first wrestler to hold 17 titles), and capturing the Intercontinental Championship. These accomplishments not only underline his versatility but also his enduring influence on the sport.
So, what do you think? Did Cena live up to your expectations, or do you believe there’s another wrestler who deserves the mantle of WWE’s greatest? Share your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation—this farewell isn’t just about saying goodbye; it’s about discussing what Cena’s legacy truly means for the future of WWE.
