John Cena’s Retirement Leaves a Lasting Impact on WWE and Big E
In a nostalgic wave, the wrestling international is reflecting at the titanic legacy of John Cena, whose retirement announcement has left each lovers and fellow wrestlers reminiscent of his illustrious career. Cena, one among WWE’s most iconic figures, confirmed at WWE Money in the Bank in Toronto that his final fit as an in-ring competitor could be at the 2025 Royal Rumble, with WrestleMania forty one in Las Vegas marking the end of his wrestling journey.
Cena’s retirement indicates the end of an generation in WWE, prompting reflections from many who have shared the hoop with him. WWE’s Chief Content Officer, Triple H, currently lauded Cena because the “greatest of all time,” a sentiment echoed by many in the enterprise.
Among those reminiscing about Cena’s affect is former WWE Champion Big E. Known for his powerhouse presence and dynamic persona, Big E’s profession trajectory was considerably shaped via his interactions with Cena. His main roster debut on the December 17, 2012, episode of Raw noticed him attacking Cena, marking a substantial milestone in his career. In an interview with Unlikely with Adrian Hernandez, Big E shared heartfelt reminiscences of Cena and the profound effect he had on him.
Big E recounted his unforgettable debut: “My debut in Philly in 2012 was leaving [Cena] laying, standing over him to close the show. That moment means so much because debuting on the main roster is incredible for everyone. But debuting like that, getting to stand over arguably the greatest of all time, he’s red-hot, he is clearly the guy, so that meant a lot to me.”
Reflecting further, Big E recalled a significant moment from about a year later: “There was a backstage segment that led to a match with The Shield. It was me, Punk, and Cena. Even that moment of being in the ring with a guy like CM Punk and Cena, it was incredible.”
Big E’s admiration for Cena extends beyond the ring. He spoke highly of Cena’s ability to captivate the audience, something he witnessed firsthand during their numerous matches together. “I think back to so many times when I first came on the road. It was always, ‘Oh, Cena’s match is about to be up,’ and so many of us would be peeking out in front of the crowd because that Cena pop is different,” Big E recalled.
He shared a vivid memory from early in his career: “When I first came on the main roster, it was Cena and Dolph [Ziggler] wrestling every single night. I remember one of my first main roster shows, we were doing MSG, they had a cage match, and to be there in New York during Cena’s prime, wrestling Dolph, who is red-hot as well in the main event, to have the best seat in the house, I’m standing there and I’m getting to see greatness.”
Big E praised Cena’s ability to manipulate the crowd and create unforgettable moments, not just for fans but also for his peers. “He made so many special moments for our fans, for people, for talent, for us to see what it’s like to be the guy, to have that kind of reaction. So salute to everything that Cena has done for our industry and even all the Make-a-Wishes as well. It’s really inspiring. He’s done a lot. A lot is an understatement, but he’s done so much for our industry and our business, so salute to him.”
As Cena prepares for his final fits, presently busy filming the second season of his Max display, Peacemaker, the wrestling world eagerly anticipates his farewell excursion. Cena’s retirement is ready to be a momentous occasion, celebrating a career that has left an indelible mark on WWE and its enthusiasts.
