Days after his emotional retirement, John Cena's iconic rival pays tribute to him on WWE RAW Stranger Things episode

The illustrious career of John Cena came to its closure at December's edition of WWE Saturday Night's Main Event 2025. The Never Seen 17 wrestled his final match at the event against Gunther, which ended on an emotional note. Days after that iconic scene, Cena's iconic rival and reigning World Heavyweight Champion, CM Punk, paid tribute to him on the Stranger Things-themed episode of Monday Night RAW.

The Best in the World was in action in the main event of the intriguing episode of WWE's flagship show. He defended his World title against the Unpredictable Bada**, Bron Breakker, in an absolute display of a highly captivating title match. At one point in the match, Breakker got the upper hand and attempted to take down Punk with his own finisher, GTS. However, he managed to escape and drop him on the mat. As soon as that happened, he trapped Breakker in the STF, John Cena's submission move, paying homage to the man who has been a significant part of his WWE career. While Cena has retired from in-ring competition, such sights and the admiration of superstars for him keep the spirit of 'Hustle Loyalty and Respect' alive among the WWE Universe.

John Cena's WWE retirement match ended with a shocker

John Cena had embarked on a farewell tour at the start of 2025. The entire calendar year saw interesting moments, like Cena turning heel for a brief while, winning his record-setting 17th World title, and delivering some of the best in-ring performances of his career. His final match took place against Gunther, who outlasted 15 other superstars in 'The Last is Time' tournament to earn the privilege of becoming Cena's last opponent.

The Never Seen 17 fought valiantly against The Ring General, and it seemed on numerous occasions that Cena had come close to putting down Gunther and walking away victorious in his last match. However, Gunther kept coming back with his raw power and fury, and in the final moments, trapped Cena in the sleeper hold. The Cenation Leader attempted to break free, but as soon as he realised that he had given everything, he had a smile on his face and tapped out.

While the career of John Cena will be etched in WWE history forever, it remains to be seen what is next for him after retiring from in-ring action.

Also read: Was a promising WWE talent fired because of John Cena’s alleged affair?

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