5 Reasons John Cena might retire at Wrestlemania 34

He's one of the most respected and decorated athletes in the history of the WWE and in all of the professional wrestling collectively. Since debuting in the early 2000's his character and his name have evolved from comedic tomfoolery ('The Prototype'... seriously?) to the 'Hustle, Loyalty & Respect' hero adored by young people and adults alike across the world over.

He isn't without his flaws, but you'd struggle to find a more dedicated performer in any profession anywhere. This attitude is arguably what has propelled John Cena straight through the barrier between wrestling and global popular culture. But, after all is said and done, is it time for 'The Franchise' to hang up his boots? Here are five reasons why John Cena might retire at Wrestlemania 34.

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#5 The family man

Cena Proposes to Nikki Bella

Although it was widely rumoured to be happening, it still came as an incredible shock when John Cena got down on one knee at Wrestlemania 33. Thankfully, his night wasn't ruined and fellow WWE superstar Nikki Bella accepted his proposal.

But, after such a public display of ultimate dedication, the question must be raised as to whether the couple has any desire to become a fully-functioning family unit away from the sport? At 40, it's probably now or never if Cena sees any little members of the Cenation running around in his near future.

#4 Credible opposition

Cena and Reigns shared the ring earlier this year

John Cena has reached the point in his career where he has virtually faced everybody there is to face. Or, to be more precise, everybody there is to face that makes sense. After facing The Rock for two years at Wrestlemania - arguably the peak of Cena's main-event run- the fall from the top was fast and furious. Why?

Because as talented as the roster currently is, an honorary legend like Cena is only serving to elevate other talent coming through rather than creating classic moments with other icons like he did with The Rock. In short, there's nowhere higher to go.

#3 The final run

Cena and Styles

Speaking of credible opposition, there was no doubt AJ Styles was made for John Cena when the pair met earlier this year. Three times they offered us classic encounters and hugely entertaining matches rife with both high-flying spots and incredible, unforeseeable reversals galore.

It could be argued that the skill put on display here is why Styles yet again finds himself holding the WWE's most coveted prize. Cena played a huge part in that. If Cena were to walk away at Wrestlemania, he'd be leaving after one hell of a final 24 months.

#2 Wear & tear

Cena's been hurt numerous times

He might still look relatively fresh for his age (40 - can you believe it?) but there's no escaping the fact that John Cena is a veteran of some eighteen years. I don't care who you are, that's a long time to be beaten from pillar to post for a living. In that time, the body can begin struggling to cope and, as we have seen with wrestlers who have chosen to lace up the boots for far too long, can have devastating circumstances.

If Cena is concerned about his future, perhaps the smartest thing to do would be to have one final hurrah at The Show of Shows and walk off into the sunset.

#1 Breaking records, showing respect

The Two Greatest?

At this moment in time, John Cena is currently tied with Hall of Famer 'Nature Boy' Ric Flair for the most world championships (recognised) held by a wrestler - sixteen. While Flair is reported to have offered his blessing for John Cena to be the man to take his record from him, should the decision ever be made, going on any further than that could be adding insult to injury?

While Cena is one of the greatest, he's certainly no innovator like Flair was. When number seventeen finally lands on his shoulder, if it's at Wrestlemania, Cena should grab the mic, thank his fans, thank the Nature Boy, and lay the belt down. The ultimate mark of respect, not only for Flair but for the business. What better way to go out?