World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) superstar John Cena bowed on Saturday, December 13, 2025, night with a shock defeat, bringing down the curtain on a 26-year career in dramatic fashion.

Cena, 48, had to accept defeat to Gunther and tapped out his submission in the Capital One Arena in Washington, DC.

It was the first time he had been forced to tap out in 20 years.

Current champions Cody Rhodes and CM Punk entered the ring to pay their respects, draping their titles over the departing legend’s shoulders in a silent salute.

Then, before he left the ring for the final time, Cena took off his trainers and sweatbands and left them on the canvas to signify the end of his 28-year career as a WWE fighter.

As he walked up the ramp for one final time, he delivered one last salute and said to the camera, “It’s been a pleasure serving you for all these years. Thank you.”

Tributes poured in from peers immediately following the bell, led by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. 

Writing on social media, Cena’s old rival said, “John, the time has come. We have spilled blood, torn tendons and broken records. 

“The thing I love most is that you’re a good human being. Go have fun. You are the GOAT.”

The defeat was an ironic end to an iconic career.

Cena, a 17-time World Champion, was synonymous with his “Never Give Up” mantra.

However, he was forced to do just that when Cena – who built an empire on resilience – was left with no choice but to tap the mat, ending his reign with a submission loss.

WWE fans were distraught at the result, and after the match, they swarmed Gunther, leading to the former World Champion needing security to escort him out of the arena. 

The star was seen after the show walking away with security and was seen rushing to his car as fans booed and jeered him.

Cena tried multiple signature moves, including his ‘Five Knuckle Shuffle’ and the ‘Attitude Adjustment’, but ultimately could not last multiple sleeper holds from the ‘Ring General’.  

After breaking the hold multiple times, Cena looked dead into the camera, gave a slight smile and tapped out. The last time he tapped out of a match was in 2004 against Kurt Angle.

After Gunther left the ring, the rest of the WWE locker room emptied to give Cena one last goodbye.