Is John Cena actually retiring from WWE next year? What we know

At the 2024 Money in the Bank Premium Live Event, John Cena surprised the WWE Universe with a shocking appearance. However, things quickly turned emotional when The Cenation Leader announced his retirement from in-ring competition. The 16-time World Champion declared that his final appearances will include next year's Royal Rumble, Elimination Chamber, and WrestleMania 41 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

However, due to Cena's past instances where he teased retirement that turned into a storyline, fans are now contemplating whether this announcement was genuine or part of a storyline. As for now, the current indications suggest that Cena's retirement decision is legitimate, especially given the merchandise he wore stating "The Last Time is Now."

Moreover, The Champ has officially announced a retirement tour, something he had not done despite previous teases.

During the Money in the Bank post-show press conference, Cena also mentioned his plans to wrestle throughout 2025 if all goes well. His statement that WrestleMania next year will be his last indicates that he won't compete in WrestleMania 42, but will continue wrestling after The Show of Shows until the end of the year.

These signs and statements strongly indicate that John Cena is indeed retiring from WWE next year and will conclude his legendary career in professional wrestling.

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Will John Cena be part of WWE after his in-ring retirement?

During the Money in the Bank post-show press conference, John Cena revealed that he intends to remain involved with WWE even after his in-ring retirement. He emphasized that the Stamford-based promotion has always been his home and expressed his interest in continuing as a backstage producer or in another capacity within the Stamford-based promotion.

If Cena decides to continue his involvement with WWE following his retirement, it would indeed bring significant value to the company. His experience and knowledge as a professional wrestler could bring positive changes within Stamford-based promotion.

Cena mentioned his desire to maximize his final run in WWE and participate in as many appearances as possible during his "Retirement Tour." He also hinted at being part of WWE's future ventures, including RAW's move to Netflix. For those unaware, Monday Night RAW will be moving to Netflix in January 2025.

It remains to be seen how things will unfold in 2025 when The Cenation Leader will embark on his Retirement Tour in the company.