John Cena said goodbye to WWE after a 24-year career

John Cena wrapped up his 24-year stint in professional wrestling by tapping out to Gunther's sleeper hold during a World Heavyweight Championship match at Saturday Night's Main Event in Washington, D.C., on December 14.

Yes, John Cena is now officially retired from WWE.

The contest ran for about 24 minutes and featured Cena landing multiple Attitude Adjustments, including one from the top rope, along with his Five Knuckle Shuffle on the dominant champion.

Gunther responded with stiff chops and elbows before cinching in the hold that prompted Cena's submission, a move the 16-time world champion had not used to end a match since 2004.

Spectators booed Gunther throughout and chanted encouragement for Cena, who flashed a smirk just before conceding the bout.

After Gunther exited, Cena sat up in the ring, absorbed the moment, and kissed the mat amid cheers from the sold-out crowd.

The full WWE roster then poured out to ringside for a tribute, with Cody Rhodes and CM Punk placing their title belts on Cena's shoulders so he could parade them one last time.

Legends such as Shawn Michaels, Rey Mysterio, AJ Styles, The Undertaker, and executives including Triple H and Stephanie McMahon joined the gathering to applaud the departing star.

A montage video played on the arena screens, showcasing clips from Cena's career that included 16 WWE Championships and multiple WrestleMania headliners.

Cena bowed to the audience in all directions, removed his boots, wristbands, and armband, and left them in the ring as a symbol of his exit.

He walked up the ramp, turned for a final salute, and said:

"It's been a pleasure serving you all these years. Thank you."

WWE shared on its X account, “One final goodbye. Thank YOU, @JohnCena.”