John Cena’s last ride is just a day away—and emotions are already running high behind the scenes.
With John Cena facing GUNTHER in his retirement match on December 13 in Washington, D.C., WWE commentator Wade Barrett just revealed what it’s really like backstage as the 17-time World Champion prepares to hang up his boots for good. Speaking with Metro UK, Barrett didn’t sugarcoat the atmosphere in the locker room, admitting that Cena’s exit is hitting people hard.
“It’s going to be tinged with a lot of emotion, a lot of sadness, that he finally is walking out the door for the last time,” Barrett said, describing the vibe among talent leading up to Cena’s farewell.
This comes just days after Cena revealed he’s officially signed a new five-year deal with WWE—not as a wrestler, but as an ambassador. He plans to stay involved by mentoring talent and helping the next generation shine.
“I’m already signed on for another five years. ‘Please, as long as you can do it. I would like to be in this family as an employee, as a contributing part for as long as I can. I have a bunch of strengths and gifts that I can pass on. I’m looking forward to the second mountain of being an ambassador… maybe mentorship to talent I wouldn’t spend time with, where I can sit and be like, ‘Who are you really?’”
December 13 marks not just the end of Cena’s in-ring career, but the close of an era in WWE. And as Wade Barrett pointed out, the reality of it all is setting in fast for the entire roster. With GUNTHER set to be Cena’s last opponent, it’s shaping up to be an emotional—and historic—night.
How do you feel about John Cena’s final match? Are you ready to say goodbye to one of wrestling’s biggest icons, or were you hoping for one last surprise run? Drop your thoughts below and share your favorite John Cena moments!
December 12, 2025 12:04 pm
