Explaining his reasoning at the time, he told of the physical toll wrestling had taken on his body.
His career has seen him undergo several operations, including on his neck, pec and triceps, with Cena saying in interviews that his “body hurts” and is “screaming to close the chapter”.
While the old saying “never say never” is a popular one, Cena has repeatedly said he will be “100% done” – and has received rousing receptions around the world for his final appearances.
Overall, fan Joe is happy with Cena’s “retirement run”, with matches against old rivals such as AJ Styles, Randy Orton and CM Punk, and newer stars including Dominik Mysterio and Gunther.
He does feel the “execution” of his final year could have been better though, with Cena’s short-term “heel turn” (becoming a villain) at the Elimination Chamber event in March drawing criticism.
“It could have been handled better,” Joe says. “[But] he’s had such a unique distinction of having a retirement run that no one’s ever had before.
“It’s very sad to see him retire now. But I think he said it himself – it’s the right time.”
Not that WWE fans will never see Cena again; he has signed a five-year deal to be an ambassador for the company.
Having won The Last Time Is Now tournament, it’s former world heavyweight champion Gunther who will face Cena in his final fight.
With it not being broadcast on terrestrial TV, but rather on streaming platforms, it’s been reported that there is no time limit on the match – and Gunther, who has never wrestled Cena before, has been giving much tough talk.
One thing’s for sure: “You Can’t See Me” might be the taunt Cena gives Gunther, but the last fight will be seen and remembered by many.