John Cena opens up about how his future would look like after WWE retirement: "A goal of mine isn’t..."

The countdown to John Cena’s final bow inside a WWE ring has begun, with just 11 appearances left before the wrestling icon bids farewell to the squared circle. As his legendary career approaches its conclusion, the 17-time world champion is making every moment count — from delivering the first heel turn of his career to capturing yet another world title.

A farewell tour packed with milestones

Cena’s farewell run has been nothing short of historic. At WWE SummerSlam (Night 2), the Leader of the Cenation defeated the odds to secure his 17th world championship — only to lose it to Cody Rhodes in the main event. The night ended in chaos when Brock Lesnar made his shocking return to WWE after a two-year hiatus, brutally assaulting Cena.

Following the dramatic events, John Cena appeared on Friday Night SmackDown, where it was revealed that he would not face Lesnar at Clash In Paris this August. Instead, he’s set to square off against social media sensation and current WWE United States Champion, Logan Paul. While speculation runs high about a possible showdown with Lesnar in Australia this October, WWE has yet to confirm the match.

John Cena on life after wrestling

The Boston native recently joined Stephanie McMahon’s podcast, where he candidly reflected on what life might look like once his in-ring career is officially over.

“A goal of mine isn’t to be an unforgettable personality. But I will say, I love WWE. There are a lot of people who do, and I love it as much as anyone. Not more, as much as anyone can love something. The WWE, I love it as much as anybody does.”

John Cena emphasized that his love for WWE runs deep — and that he has no intention of walking away bitter or resentful.

“I’m not going to go out the next day and badmouth the thing that I love. And I don’t use the word ‘wrestling.’ I use the words ‘WWE.’ I don’t like wrestling. I like, I love WWE specifically. It’s where I belong.”

The legacy of the Cenation Leader

For over two decades, John Cena has been more than just a performer — he’s been the embodiment of WWE’s “Never Give Up” mantra. From headlining WrestleMania to granting more wishes for the Make-A-Wish Foundation than any other celebrity, John Cena’s influence extends far beyond the ring.

As his career enters its final stretch, fans around the world are preparing to say goodbye to one of the most decorated and beloved superstars in WWE history. But if his words are any indication, Cena’s connection to WWE is far from over — even after the final bell rings.