The WWE Universe witnessed the end of a historic era on Saturday, December 13, 2025. John Cena, after more than two decades as one of professional wrestling’s most iconic figures, stepped into the ring for the final time. In what was billed as his retirement match at Saturday Night’s Main Event in Washington, D.C., Cena battled Gunther, a rising force in WWE, in a contest that would cement the end of Cena’s in-ring career. After an intense struggle, Cena found himself locked in Gunther’s signature sleeper hold and, in a moment that shocked fans around the world, tapped out. 

It not only marked the first time in over 20 years that Cena was defeated by submission but also set off one of the most unexpected rises of a movie on Netflix.

The surprising spike in interest came after WWE Raw debuted on Netflix this year, riding the wave of fan fascination and debate over John Cena’s final match. The episode that followed Cena’s retirement drew record-breaking viewership on the platform, climbing to number 1 on Netflix’s global charts. Fans tuned in to see how WWE would navigate its first major broadcast without Cena as an active competitor.

Analysts suggest that the debate over Cena’s finish, and the emotional resonance of his farewell contributed heavily to the show’s streaming success. The Netflix platform provided unprecedented access to WWE’s flagship program for casual viewers and long-time fans alike, contributing to its renaissance.

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As the WWE Universe processes the shock of Cena’s final chapter in the ring, the bigger question now looms - where does a legend go when the lights finally fade?

At 48 years old, John Cena is no longer just a wrestling icon. He has firmly established himself as a Hollywood star. From leading DC’s Peacemaker series to scene-stealing roles in the Fast & Furious franchise, Cena has built a second career that rivals his WWE fame. With his in-ring days behind him, his focus now shifts fully to film and television, where his mix of action credibility and comedic timing continues to win audiences worldwide.

For Cena, the decision to walk away was about honoring a promise he made long ago that he would step away from the scene once he felt that he had lost a step. John Cena’s final bell may have rung in WWE, but his influence is far from over. From the squared circle to the silver screen, his story continues to evolve.

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 Will you follow John Cena’s next chapter in Hollywood, or will WWE always be where you see him as a true legend? Let us know in the comments below.