John Cena’s legendary WWE run officially concludes on December 13, 2025, as NBC Sports has confirmed his retirement match will headline a special edition of Saturday Night’s Main Event. While the venue remains unannounced, signs point to Boston, Massachusetts just miles from his hometown of West Newbury. His opponent remains a mystery, but the event will mark the end of a historic 20-year career that saw Cena claim a record-setting 17 world championships.
As part of his farewell season, Cena has embraced a rare heel persona and continues to headline marquee events across the globe.
Peacock to Stream the Farewell Match Exclusively
Peacock has secured the exclusive streaming rights to this milestone event as part of a multiyear deal with WWE. The agreement will feature four Saturday Night’s Main Event specials each year, with Cena’s final match being the biggest draw. NBC Sports President Rick Cordella praised the continued partnership, saying, “Saturday Night’s Main Event is some of the most premium content WWE produces including John Cena’s upcoming retirement match and it would will be all live and exclusive on Peacock.”
Farewell Tour Continues with Global Stops
Before his final bell, Cena continues his farewell tour across the globe. Upcoming stops include SmackDown in Dublin (Aug. 22) and Lyon (Aug. 29), and a headline bout against Logan Paul at Clash in Paris (Aug. 31). He’s also expected at WWE’s first-ever Wrestlepalooza in Indianapolis (Sept. 20), where rumors swirl about a potential clash with longtime rival Brock Lesnar. As of August 20, Cena has completed 25 of his planned 36 appearances, with 11 remaining on the calendar.
What’s Next for WWE After Cena?
With Cena stepping away, WWE enters a new era both in talent and media. Speculation about his opponent ranges from veterans like Lesnar to rising stars such as Gunther or Bron Breakker, hinting at a potential passing of the torch. WWE’s new deal with ESPN, which takes over premium live events starting in September, and its continued partnership with NBCUniversal via Peacock, signals a strategic shift in WWE’s media landscape. Cena’s final match will mark both a personal farewell and a transitional moment for the company.
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Karan Singh Rathod is a dedicated sports journalist known for his sharp attention to detail and flair for storytelling. With over a year of experience in writing and editorial work, he blends thorough research with compelling narratives to deliver engaging sports content. A passionate follower of football and cricket, he starts his mornings with a newspaper to stay updated with sports, fashion, and current affairs. Outside of journalism, Karan enjoys traveling and discovering new destinations.