John Cena iconic World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) career came to a disappointing end as the 17-time world champion lost his final match against Gunther at the Saturday Night's Main Event. In a match that had fans on the edge of their seats, Cena was forced to tap out by the Ring General. It was the first time in 20 years, Cena had tapped out in a contest.
The outcome of the contest shocked each and every fan present at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C with most having their hands on heads in disbelief. Cena thus finished as 17-time World Champion, five-time US Champion, four-time Tag Team Champion, two-time Royal Rumble winner and an Intercontinental title.
Following his final match, Cena acknowledged the crowd and thanked them for supporting and loving him all these years. After acknowledging the crowd, Cena placed his shoes and armband in the ring before walking off for the final time. “It's been an honour,” Cena said before walking into the backstage, caping off his career.
Following Cena's final bout, the entire WWE roster came out to congratulate him. In a beautiful gesture, Cody Rhodes and CM Punk placed their Championships on Cena's shoulders.
John Cena vs Gunther: What happened in last fight?
It was Gunther who came out first into the ring amid the boos. Once his iconic theme song was played out, the whole arena just erupted as Cena was greeted by hos former rivals on the ring side. Gunther had the upper hand from the onset in front of a sell-out crowd.
Cena did try to put Gunther away with a five-knuckle shuffle and the STF but it was Gunther who regained control. The 43-year-old went into a 'Super Cena' mode and make a comeback with another five-knuckle shuffle and an AA but Gunther kicked out at two.
Gunther then started tossing Cena around the ring and even threw him on steel steps. Cena once again regained control with a AA through the table as the crowd chanting “You still got it”. However, it was Gunther, who proved to be too strong forcing Cena to tap out.
Undertaker goes down memory lane for John Cena
Earlier, Undertaker took to X to pay a tribute to Cena. He walked down the memory lane when Undertaker hailed Cena in 2002 despite a loss to Kurt Angle for a valiant effort on his WWE main-roster debut on 'Smackdown'. He hailed Cena as a trademark of "Hustle, Loyalty and Respect".
““Nice job” Those were the words I said to you 23 years ago when you debuted. Now, on the day of your final match, I say again...nice job,” Undertaker wrote on X. “Hustle, loyalty, and respect is more than just a catch phrase. For 23 years you have lived by those words. Your passion for our business and dedication to our fan base is unmatched.”
"Enjoy the last ride tonight my friend and one final time...nice job. @JohnCena," Undertaker concluded.
