John Cena Says His ‘Skills Are on the Regress’ While Discussing Reasoning Behind WWE Retirement

Cena said his body has regressed to the point where he can no longer do the same things physically in the gym or ring.

May 28, 2025

John Cena wearing a cap and a T-shirt with his image and name, standing in a wrestling ring with a focused expression.

(Photo by Rich Freeda/WWE via Getty Images)

John Cena has revealed why he chose this year to be the one where he hangs up his wrestling boots.

In a sit-down conversation with former WWE executive Stephanie McMahon on her show Stephanie's Places, Cena explained how things had changed for him physically in 2025 when it came to his body. According to Cena, he realized he couldn't lift over 300 pounds on various weight exercises since his body was so "beat up." It didn't take long for him to realize the same thing with wrestling and putting his body on the line.

"My skills are on the regress," Cena said. "If I continue at a full-time physical capability or involvement, I'm not gonna run right, my partner's not gonna run right, and our relationship's not gonna run right. Sorry kid, it's time to close this chapter. I wish I was 18, I wish I felt great because I don't feel more at home—besides in the arms of my wife—than I do on a canvas. I had pitched this idea, a real wrestling farewell, and hoping that they would see the business of it."

Cena's heel run as the current undisputed WWE Champion has been heavily criticized due to his lackluster performances in the ring against the likes of Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton.

The moment happened after the 16-time world champion defeated five other superstars in the men's Elimination Chamber match in March to secure his spot at Wrestlemania 41 to take on Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE title match.