Unforgettable Beginnings and Rise to Stardom
John Cena's WWE career, spanning over two decades, began with a bang in 2002 when he debuted as 'The Prototype,' a character showcasing raw athleticism and determination. His early days in the Ruthless Aggression Era saw him quickly evolve into the 'Doctor of Thuganomics,' a rap-inspired persona that resonated with fans through witty promos and a rebellious attitude. Cena's first major breakthrough came in 2005 when he captured his inaugural WWE Championship at WrestleMania 21, defeating JBL to become a cornerstone of the company.
This victory marked the start of Cena's ascent as a top star, embodying the hustle, loyalty, and respect mantra that defined his persona. Over the years, he faced iconic rivals like Edge, Randy Orton, and Shawn Michaels, delivering matches that are still celebrated by fans. His ability to adapt and connect with audiences turned him into a household name, setting the stage for an unprecedented run of success.
Record-Breaking Championships and Shocking Heel Turn
Cena's journey to becoming a 17-time world champion is a testament to his enduring impact on WWE. His latest title win came at WrestleMania 41 on April 20, 2025, when he defeated Cody Rhodes to claim the Undisputed WWE Championship, breaking records with assistance from The Rock and Travis Scott. This victory, however, was overshadowed by a stunning heel turn—his first since 2003—where Cena aligned with controversial figures and vowed to 'ruin' wrestling, as reported by various sources on the web.
This dramatic shift shocked fans, as Cena criticized their treatment of him over the years during subsequent appearances. His heel run included disappointing matches against stars like CM Punk and Randy Orton, drawing mixed reactions. Despite the controversy, Cena's championship reigns—from his first in 2005 to his record-setting 17th—solidify his legacy as one of the greatest in WWE history.
Farewell Tour and Final Appearances
As Cena approaches retirement on December 13, WWE has confirmed his final appearances, giving fans a chance to bid farewell to the icon. His schedule includes stops at SmackDown on September 5 in Chicago, RAW on September 15 in Springfield, WrestlePalooza on September 20 in Indianapolis, Crown Jewel on October 11 in Perth, RAW on November 10 in Boston, RAW on November 17 in New York City, Survivor Series on November 29, and his retirement match on December 13. These dates mark the end of an era for the 17-time champion.
The retirement tour has been bittersweet for many, with posts on X reflecting a mix of admiration for Cena's contributions and disappointment over the direction of his final storyline. While some fans lament the sporadic nature of his heel turn and the quality of recent matches, others celebrate his dedication to leaving it all in the ring. As Cena prepares to hang up his jorts, his impact on professional wrestling remains undeniable, inspiring generations of performers and fans alike.