John Cena, the iconic WWE star, has shared a heartfelt explanation for his ongoing farewell tour, revealing that his choice to retire from full-time wrestling is driven by concerns for his health and the well-being of his marriage. Speaking recently with Stephanie McMahon on her What’s Your Story? podcast, Cena reflected on how his priorities have changed after nearly 20 years as a key figure in WWE.
Throughout his career, Cena’s focus was relentlessly on performing and traveling, but at 48 years old, he emphasized the importance of more meaningful aspects of life.
“For 15 years, the tip of my spear was getting to the next town,”
Cena stated.
“Now, at 48, the greatest gift is waking up. And that is the tip of my spear, and right below that is my bride.”
Physical and Emotional Challenges Behind Cena’s Retirement Decision
Beyond the physical challenges, Cena pointed out that his wrestling capabilities have diminished because he has begun taking fewer risks, reflecting a more cautious approach than during his prime.
“My skills are on the regress because I take less risks,”
he admitted.
“I want to be able to move around… I’m hedged on the moves I can do, and I’m also a little bit more worn.”
This shift mirrors not just a concern for his own health but a recognition of the emotional and mental demands of performing full-time at WWE’s highest level. Cena explained the complexity of maintaining such a schedule, describing it as a delicate balancing act.
“To be full time in this, it’s a difficult juggling act,”
he said.
“Just from the way I invest in this… it’s tough to carry people with you. It’s like they need to ride the wave—you can’t run next to me.”
Reflecting on his intense commitment in 2013, when he earned the nickname “iron man” for his grueling schedule, Cena noted that attempting to maintain such a demanding routine today would be impossible.
“A schedule like I was doing in 2013 would destroy me right now,”
he acknowledged.
The Importance of Family and Future Priorities for Cena
Above all, Cena emphasized that protecting his personal life is now his foremost priority.
“It will ruin me and ruin my relationship. And that’s the tip of my spear,”
he said, underscoring why he must end this chapter of his career.
“So I gotta close the chapter.”
Currently, Cena continues to participate in his WWE farewell tour, featuring several major matches that honor his legendary status. His next appearance is scheduled for tomorrow night at WWE SummerSlam, where he will defend the WWE Championship against Cody Rhodes. This confrontation is expected to be one of the last headline matches of his career, highlighting his enduring impact on the sport.
Looking Ahead to Cena’s Farewell Tour and WWE SummerSlam
As Cena concludes his remarkable run, fans are closely following his farewell matches, which celebrate his exceptional achievements as a 16-time World Champion and a defining presence in professional wrestling. His decision to retire from full-time WWE competition marks a significant moment for the industry, as one of its most beloved figures transitions to a focus on health and family.
With the SummerSlam event imminent, Cena’s bout against Cody Rhodes will draw considerable attention, serving as a poignant milestone in the final chapter of his in-ring career. This farewell tour not only honors Cena’s accomplishments but also highlights the changing priorities that have led him to prioritize longevity and loved ones above all else.
