Following Big E’s recent indication that his in-ring wrestling days are over, John Cena expressed his appreciation for the former WWE Champion through social media. On Saturday, Cena responded to Big E’s Friday post on X by thanking him for the memorable moments they shared together in WWE.
A Look Back at Their Shared WWE Journey
Throughout their careers, Cena and Big E faced each other 13 times, exclusively on Raw and at house shows. Their notable singles encounter took place on a 2015 episode of Raw, where Cena successfully defended his United States title against Big E. This match remains a significant milestone in their intertwined histories.
Big E’s Tough Road and Current Focus
Big E, who is 39 years old, recently reflected on the physical toll his career inflicted, including severe injuries like two torn ACLs, a torn pectoral muscle, and a broken right patella sustained before his wrestling career began. Despite these challenges, he shared that he does not endure daily pain, feels well, and remains deeply grateful for his time in the ring.
During media engagements for the Super Bowl, Big E confirmed that he is currently retired from wrestling. Instead, he is concentrating on other pursuits, such as producing a new YouTube series centered on the NFL Draft, demonstrating a shift toward life beyond wrestling.
Injury and Recovery Background
Big E’s retirement follows a severe neck injury caused by a Ridge Holland suplex during a SmackDown match in March 2022. Since then, he has refrained from competing but has kept close ties to WWE by appearing regularly on both pre-show and post-show segments of WWE Pay-Per-View events.
John Cena’s Tribute to Big E
On X, John Cena shared a heartfelt message to Big E, stating,
“Thank you (Big E) for the moments and the memories. #Respect.”
This simple yet powerful acknowledgment highlights the mutual respect and camaraderie built between the two superstars over years of competition and collaboration.
Legacy and Future Impact
The exchange between John Cena and Big E underscores the respect shared by veteran performers and the significance of their contributions to WWE history. As Big E explores new ventures beyond wrestling, the lasting impact of his career continues to resonate with fans and fellow athletes alike. Cena’s public recognition reflects not only personal admiration but also the broader community’s appreciation for Big E’s memorable presence inside the squared circle.
Thank you @WWEBigE for the moments and the memories. #Respect https://t.co/xyZdX6fy6G
— John Cena (@JohnCena) February 7, 2026
