John Cena, the 17-time world champion and one of WWE’s most iconic figures, has embarked on what he calls an “uncharted territory” — his WWE Farewell Tour in 2025. Unlike other celebrated storylines and rivalries that have defined his legendary career, Cena revealed that this farewell run is the most meaningful journey he has ever undertaken inside the squared circle.
During a recent appearance at FAN EXPO Denver 2025, Cena was candid when asked about his favorite WWE storyline. Instead of pointing to historic championship reigns or classic rivalries, he credited his current farewell tour as the most significant narrative of his career. “This is something I hadn’t really anticipated,” Cena explained, “the emotional weight, the connection with fans, and reflecting on everything has made this a truly uncharted experience for me”[5].
A Career-Defining Final Chapter
After nearly two decades as a full-time WWE superstar and wrestling part-time since 2018, Cena officially announced that 2025 would be his final year competing in WWE. His retirement tour is extensive and global, with plans to appear in approximately 35 to 40 cities across the world, including major WWE events like SummerSlam, Money in the Bank, and Crown Jewel, among others[1][2].
This “Last Time is Now” tour kicked off at the Netflix debut of Monday Night Raw at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles on January 6, 2025, setting an emotionally charged tone for what will be a farewell run unlike any other in WWE history[3][4]. In his opening remarks, Cena declared his intent not just to participate but to seize key victories, including setting sights on winning the Royal Rumble 2025 — a potential stepping stone toward his 17th world championship, which would break his tie with Ric Flair for the most world titles in WWE history[3].
A Shift in Role and Presence
Unlike previous years when Cena was a ubiquitous presence on WWE television, his 2025 schedule balances his ongoing Hollywood commitments with a wrestling farewell that aims to maximize face-to-face connections with fans worldwide. Sources close to Cena have indicated that this tour won’t just be about in-ring competition but also celebrating his legacy through meet-and-greets, media appearances, and special segments during WWE shows.
Reports have noted that Cena’s farewell includes memorable moments such as his shocking heel turn against Cody Rhodes and his alliance with The Rock during the Toronto WWE Raw event, signaling a willingness to experiment even in his final run, keeping the storyline fresh and unpredictable[1]. This adds a dramatic layer to his farewell and allows Cena to explore aspects of his wrestling persona he had not emphasized before.
The Emotional Impact and Fan Connection
What makes this farewell tour “uncharted territory” for Cena isn’t just the scale or the schedule but the emotional resonance it carries. Over his career, Cena has built a reputation as “The Face That Runs the Place” and a role model for millions worldwide. Now, as he prepares to step away from full-time competition, the interaction with fans takes on a newfound poignancy.
During the FAN EXPO interview, Cena reflected on how the farewell tour has deepened his appreciation for the WWE Universe and the impact his career has had. “It’s humbling,” he said, “to realize the kind of memories and moments we’ve shared. This tour allows me to say thank you in every city, every town where my story has been written with the fans”[5].
Looking Ahead: What Cena’s Future Holds
While 2025 marks the end of Cena’s full-time WWE career, it is not the end of his involvement with wrestling or entertainment. Industry insiders suggest at least occasional returns or special appearances are possible beyond his farewell tour, in line with how many legends have transitioned to sporadic matches or ambassadorial roles[2].
In Hollywood, Cena continues to build a successful career, balancing action movies, hosting gigs, and production ventures. His WWE farewell tour, therefore, serves to close the chapter on his in-ring legacy while spotlighting his broader role as a global entertainer and ambassador for the sport.
Confirmed Dates and Final Shows
As of July 2025, Cena’s farewell tour schedule includes headline appearances on major WWE shows and significant pay-per-view events across multiple continents. Some of the most anticipated stops include:
- July 18 – SmackDown in San Antonio, Texas
- August 2-3 – SummerSlam in East Rutherford, New Jersey
- August 15 – SmackDown in Dublin, Ireland
- August 31 – Clash in Paris, France
- October 11 – Crown Jewel in Perth, Australia[2]
Fans are advised to follow WWE’s official channels and trusted news sources as additional dates are expected to be confirmed throughout the year.
Backstage Perspectives
According to a WWE insider, “John’s farewell tour is different because he’s not just putting on matches; he’s crafting a deeply personal story. He’s engaging on levels we haven’t seen before, making sure his legacy is felt in every city he visits. It’s more than a tour—it’s a celebration of his impact on wrestling and the fans.”[1]
Final Thoughts
John Cena’s WWE Farewell Tour in 2025 is not merely a sequence of final matches but a carefully crafted narrative that honors two decades of wrestling excellence while acknowledging the emotional journey of saying goodbye. For Cena, this “uncharted territory” is a testament to his evolution from a wrestling icon to a multi-dimensional performer and global figure, making his farewell one of the most compelling storylines in WWE history.
As the WWE Universe watches on, Cena’s farewell tour promises unforgettable moments, fresh storylines, and a heartfelt thank-you to the fans who have supported him every step of the way. The journey may be nearing its end, but the legacy of John Cena will undoubtedly endure for years to come.