John Cena’s farewell tour has become the talk of the wrestling world, blending nostalgia with whispers of controversy. As the 16-time world champion embarks on a year-long goodbye, fans and critics alike are debating whether this grand exit sets a new standard—or risks overshadowing his legendary career.
But one WWE icon has weighed in with a fiery perspective that cuts to the core of what it means to retire with honor. Hint: It involves a certain Phenom, a grave digger’s shovel, and a warning no fan saw coming, it's none other than The Undertaker.
The Deadman’s verdict: Retirement demands 100% commitment’”
The Undertaker, WWE’s legendary grim reaper of the squared circle, has never been one to mince words. In a recent interview promoting WWE LFG, the Hall of Famer dropped a tombstone-sized truth bomb about John Cena’s retirement tour: “You can’t mail it in.”
Reflecting on Cena’s decision to crisscross the globe for a final bow, The Undertaker acknowledged the tour’s novelty but stressed the non-negotiable price of greatness.
“This business demands everything,” he told Shakiel Mahjouri. “You can’t do it halfway. If you’re not 100% committed, you’re disrespecting the ring—and the fans.”
Cena’s crossroads: Passion vs. New Horizons
The Deadman’s comments highlight a tension at the heart of Cena’s farewell. For over two decades, John Cena embodied WWE’s workhorse ethos, grinding through house shows, pay-per-views, and countless Make-A-Wish appearances. But now, as he pivots to Hollywood and other ventures, The Undertaker questions whether such a split focus honors the craft.
“John loves this business,” he admitted. “But there’s a pull to test new waters. That’s human. Still, in the ring, there’s no room for half-heartedness.”
The Undertaker’s own dance with retirement
Few know this struggle better than The Phenom himself. His career was a series of false retirements, with WrestleMania matches often billed as his “last ride”—only for Vince McMahon to lure him back. It wasn’t until the cinematic Boneyard Match against AJ Styles at WrestleMania 36 that he found closure.
Comparing his path to John Cena’s, The Undertaker noted, “I teetered for years. But John? He’s scripting his exit on his terms—and that’s rare.”
A Blueprint for the Future?
Despite his warnings, The Undertaker endorsed Cena’s tour as a potential template for legends eyeing retirement.
“Not everyone deserves this sendoff,” he said. “But John? Absolutely. Fans deserve a chance to say goodbye, and he’s earned his flowers.”
Yet, he issued a caveat: “Your career must revolve around wrestling. Always.”
The Undertaker’s words are a stark reminder: Retirement isn’t just an exit—it’s a final testament to a career’s worth of sacrifice. As John Cena’s tour unfolds, the wrestling world watches to see if his goodbye strikes the balance between homage and reinvention. One thing’s certain: When The Deadman speaks, even legends like Cena should listen.