John Cena is currently nearing the end of his retirement tour, which is rumored to culminate in December with his final <a href="https://cynicaltimes.org/category/wrestling-news/wwe/”>WWE match in Boston. As the Cenation Leader prepares for this significant moment, discussions have intensified about who will be his last opponent and the outcome of that match, marking the final chapter of his storied wrestling career.
Career Highlights Leading to Cena’s Last Bout
Earlier this year, John Cena made history by defeating Cody Rhodes to claim the Undisputed WWE Championship for the 17th time. This milestone cemented Cena’s legacy as one of the most decorated champions in WWE history. With the retirement final match drawing closer, fans and analysts alike are reflecting on the legends who faced defeat in their concluding WWE appearances.
Shawn Michaels’ Last Match Against The Undertaker
One of the most memorable final matches belongs to Shawn Michaels, who faced The Undertaker at WrestleMania 26 in March 2010. Michaels had made a bold declaration that a loss would lead to his retirement. Despite Michaels’ efforts, The Undertaker extended his undefeated WrestleMania streak, forcing Michaels to step away from in-ring competition. After retiring, Michaels transitioned into a mentorship and executive role overseeing NXT.
Ric Flair’s Emotional Farewell Match
Ric Flair, widely recognized as one of WWE’s all-time greats with 16 world championships, ended his active wrestling career after losing to Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania 24 in 2008. This emotional contest marked the end of Flair’s in-ring journey and remains a significant moment in WWE history.
Dave Batista’s Final Encounter with Triple H
In 2019, Dave Batista returned to WWE and reignited a rivalry with Triple H, his former Evolution teammate. Their brutal No Holds Barred Match took place at WrestleMania 41 and resulted in Triple H emerging victorious. Batista retired after this intense battle and, like Triple H before him, is expected to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in the future.
Kurt Angle’s Retirement Battle and Vince McMahon’s Plans
John Cena’s first WWE appearance was in a confrontation with Kurt Angle over 23 years ago, adding depth to their intertwined careers. However, when Angle’s retirement match occurred at WrestleMania 39, it was Baron Corbin, not Cena, who faced him. Corbin won, sending Angle out of the ring with a loss and concluding his celebrated career.
Da Man’s Title Challenge Against Gunther in Atlanta
Most recently, Da Man feuded with Gunther, known as The Ring General, starting from their encounter at Bad Blood in October 2024. Their rivalry reached its climax on July 12th during Saturday Night’s Main Event in Atlanta, where Da Man challenged Gunther for the World Heavyweight Championship but was ultimately defeated. Goldberg, supporting Da Man, expressed dissatisfaction with the creative direction leading up to this last high-profile match.
Reflections on WWE Legends’ Final Matches
As John Cena prepares for his retirement final match, the fates of these esteemed wrestlers offer context about the significance of concluding a career in the WWE ring. Several icons ended their journeys with loss, a testament to the emotional weight such moments hold. Cena’s upcoming match in Boston not only symbolizes the close of an era but will also contribute to the legacy he leaves behind in professional wrestling.
