John Cena will step into a WWE ring for the final time on December 13, and his farewell opponent, Gunther, is making it clear that the WWE icon should expect anything but a happy send-off. The Austrian powerhouse, now confirmed as John Cena last match opponent, has delivered some of the most intense pre-match comments of his career, promising to end Cena’s legendary run in heartbreak.
Cena’s retirement bout headlines Saturday Night’s Main Event at Washington D.C.’s Capital One Arena, marking the official end of a two-decade legacy defined by 17 world championships, era-defining rivalries, and unprecedented longevity.
Gunther Promises a “Heartbreaking” Final Chapter for John Cena
Speaking on ESPN’s The Rich Eisen Show, Gunther compared Cena’s career to a book entering its final pages and insisted he intends to write the last chapter himself—and make sure it ends painfully.
“Let’s compare it to a book. The last chapter will be written on Saturday,” Gunther said . “Is it going to be a happy ending or is it going to be a heartbreak? And I’m going to do everything in my power that it’s going to be a heartbreak.”
Gunther’s words reflect the confidence of a man who has already ended Goldberg’s career earlier this year and sees Cena’s retirement match as another defining triumph.
Gunther Says He “Hated Seeing Cena” Early in His Career
In a separate appearance on ESPN’s First Take, Gunther admitted he never liked John Cena while growing up in wrestling, and even disliked the 16-time champion’s signature jorts look.
“I remember that I hated the guy in jorts on TV week by week. I always thought it doesn’t belong in the ring,” Gunther said. “John Cena is definitely the greatest sports entertainer of all time, but I’m the greatest pro wrestler right now. That’s going to be the conflict.”
The contrasting philosophies—Cena’s entertainment-driven legacy versus Gunther’s purist approach, add a compelling dimension to this once-in-a-generation matchup.
When is John Cena’s Last Match?
👉 John Cena Last Match Date: December 13, 2025
📍 Capital One Arena, Washington D.C.
📺 Streaming on Peacock
🩳 Match: John Cena vs. Gunther
This final appearance is expected to draw significant emotion, both inside the arena and across the global WWE fanbase.
Following Gunther’s tournament win, Cena shared a message on X acknowledging the importance of his final match and expressing respect for his opponent.
Gunther calls it heartbreak. John Cena calls it an honor. WWE fans simply know this: one of the greatest careers in wrestling history is about to reach its final bell.
