John Cena Says Physical Decline Drove Retirement Call
Speaking on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Cena said a lower vertical jump and declining strength shaped his decision to step away from the ring.
John Cena explained the reasoning behind his retirement from in-ring wrestling in a new interview on the Happy Sad Confused podcast with Josh Horowitz, according to comingsoon.net.
Cena said his physical decline, including a lower vertical jump and reduced strength, influenced the decision. He also said he did not want to take money from fans if his performances no longer justified ticket prices.
The former WWE champion described his retirement tour as business-driven rather than egotistical, framing the choice around what audiences were paying to see.
A career already closed in the ring
Cena, a 17-time WWE World Champion, has been transitioning into Hollywood while closing out his wrestling career. In December 2025, he officially concluded his in-ring career at WWE Saturday Night's Main Event, losing to Gunther via submission.
Quick answers
Where did John Cena discuss his retirement?
He discussed it on the Happy Sad Confused podcast with Josh Horowitz.
Why did John Cena retire from wrestling?
He cited physical decline, including a lower vertical jump and reduced strength, and said he did not want to take money from fans if his performances no longer justified ticket prices.
When did John Cena's in-ring career end?
In December 2025, at WWE Saturday Night's Main Event, where he lost to Gunther via submission.