Legendary John Cena taps out in final match against Gunther
Photo: Screengrab
John Cena’s legendary in-ring career came to an emotional and dramatic end as he was defeated by Gunther in the main event of WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event, delivering one of the most unforgettable matches in modern sports entertainment history.
Competing inside a packed arena and in front of a thunderous crowd, the 17-time World Champion fought valiantly in what was officially billed as the final match of John Cena’s career.
From the opening bell, the atmosphere was electric. Cena, wearing his trademark jorts, circled the ring as fans erupted in support, while Gunther — “The Ring General” — relied on his trademark physical dominance.
Gunther quickly asserted control with brutal chops and power offense, silencing Cena early and drawing loud boos from the crowd. Each thunderous strike echoed with the sense that history was unfolding.
Speechless. 😔 pic.twitter.com/BEfg0Fqd4Z
— WWE (@WWE) December 14, 2025
Cena gradually battled back, feeding off the audience. He blocked a chop, fired off punches, and delivered the familiar sequence that defined his career — diving shoulder tackles, the Protobomb, and a resounding Five Knuckle Shuffle.
When Cena lifted Gunther for an Attitude Adjustment, the crowd believed the fairy-tale ending was within reach. But Gunther survived, kicking out and refusing to yield.
What followed was a grueling showcase of resilience, power, and will. Both men traded finishers, submission holds, and near falls. Cena locked in the STFU, while Gunther repeatedly trapped him in a suffocating Sleeper Hold, targeting the neck and draining the veteran’s strength.
The action spilled outside the ring, culminating in a jaw-dropping moment as Cena delivered an Attitude Adjustment off the steel steps and through the commentary table — a career-defining highlight that brought fans to their feet chanting, “This is awesome.”
😭 😭 😭@JohnCena pic.twitter.com/8jEkDTbTlf
— WWE (@WWE) December 14, 2025
Despite multiple comeback attempts, including what may have been the final Five Knuckle Shuffle of his career, Cena could not keep Gunther down. The Austrian powerhouse absorbed Avalanche Attitude Adjustments, diving leg drops, and relentless offense, continuing to rise with cold precision.
In the closing moments, Gunther locked Cena in the Sleeper Hold once more. The crowd pleaded, chanting “Don’t give up,” as Cena fought with everything he had — embodying the mantra that defined him: Never Give Up. But this time, there was no escape.
Overcome and exhausted, John Cena tapped out, signaling the end of one of the greatest careers in WWE history.
One final goodbye.
— WWE (@WWE) December 14, 2025
Thank YOU, @JohnCena. 🫡 pic.twitter.com/hg8gNpbILG
As the bell rang, fans stood in appreciation. John Cena’s journey — spanning more than two decades, countless championships, and iconic moments — officially came to a close. His legacy as one of the greatest WWE Superstars of all time is now etched forever in wrestling history.