With John Cena preparing to step into the ring for the final time on December 13 against Gunther, WWE fans around the world are asking one question: Where will this historic showdown rank among the most emotional retirement matches in WWE history?
Retirement matches have always carried a special weight in WWE. They mark the end of eras, close chapters written over decades, and ignite unforgettable emotions in arenas worldwide. As Cena — one of the greatest and most decorated superstars of all time — prepares for his last match, the wrestling world is already placing his farewell alongside the most iconic exits the company has ever seen.
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John Cena Retirement: Date, Opponent, Start Time, and How to Watch Live
the Top 10 most emotional retirement matches in WWE history
1. Ric Flair vs. Shawn Michaels – WrestleMania 24 (2008)
The match that brought the world to tears. Flair’s “I’m sorry, I love you” moment from Shawn Michaels remains one of the most emotional scenes ever in WWE.
2. Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker – WrestleMania 26 (2010)
A career vs. streak match that delivered pure drama, ending the in-ring career of Mr. WrestleMania.
3. The Undertaker vs. AJ Styles – WrestleMania 36 (2020)
A cinematic masterpiece marking the emotional farewell of The Deadman after 30 years of dominance.
4. Edge’s Sudden Retirement (2011)
Though not a match, Edge’s emotional speech announcing his forced retirement due to injury brought the arena — and millions watching — to tears.
5. Daniel Bryan’s Retirement (2016)
Another non-match retirement, but one of the most heartbreaking moments ever, as Bryan was forced to step away due to medical issues before eventually returning pyears later.
6. Trish Stratus vs. Lita – Unforgiven (2006)
A beautiful farewell in the Hall of Famer’s hometown, Toronto, where Trish retired as champion.
7. Batista vs. Triple H – WrestleMania 35 (2019)
Batista’s final chapter, ending his career after a brutal No Holds Barred match with longtime rival Triple H.
8. Kurt Angle vs. Baron Corbin – WrestleMania 35 (2019)
An emotional goodbye to one of the greatest in-ring performers in history, though the opponent choice stirred controversy among fans.
9. Goldberg vs. Roman Reigns Build (2020)
Goldberg’s intended retirement program before COVID altered plans — a turning point for one of wrestling’s most dominant forces.
10. Rey Mysterio’s Nearly Final Matches (Various)
Where Will John Cena vs. Gunther Rank?
While WWE has yet to officially rank John Cena vs. Gunther among the most emotional retirement matches, the bout is expected to land within the Top 3 due to its historic significance.
Cena’s two-decade legacy, combined with Gunther’s dominance as “The Ring General,” creates a farewell match filled with drama, nostalgia, and emotional weight that few others can match.
John Cena’s final match has all the ingredients of a historic emotional farewell:
A 17-time world champion taking his last steps inside the ring.
A match against Gunther, one of the most dominant new-era superstars.
A year-long retirement tour filled with iconic wins and nostalgic moments.
A generation of fans who grew up with Cena’s “Never Give Up” spirit.
Some fans even believe it could surpass Flair vs. Michaels, given Cena’s unmatched connection with the audience and the historic weight of a 20-year career coming to an end
