The curtain fell on John Cena's legendary in-ring career in December 2025, but not before his farewell tour delivered one of the most shocking moments in recent WWE memory. The epic conclusion played out across two major events, blending heartfelt tributes with stunning betrayal, leaving the WWE Universe in a state of awe.
Survivor Series Shocker: A Hero's Welcome Turns Sour
John Cena's penultimate match took place at WWE Survivor Series 2025, where he defended the WWE Intercontinental Championship against Dominik Mysterio. The bout was a blockbuster attraction in itself, a fitting chapter for 'The Never Seen 17'. However, the real drama unfolded after the final bell.
In a stunning twist, Liv Morgan made her return to WWE after a six-month injury hiatus. The former WWE Women's World Champion initially seemed to side with Cena, even slapping Dominik Mysterio. But in a vicious turn, Morgan hugged Cena only to deliver a low blow, kicking him squarely in the groin. This act of betrayal allowed Dominik Mysterio to capitalize and regain the championship.
Morgan later discussed the moment with Stephanie McMahon on her podcast, stating bluntly, "I had one job, to kick @JohnCena in the d$&@ and hit him with the title." The calculated attack was hailed by many as one of the coolest returns in recent history.
Cena's Graceful Response and The Final Salute
Ever the sportsman, John Cena responded to Liv Morgan's actions on his X (formerly Twitter) account. With his characteristic wit, he corrected her, writing, "Isn't that 2 jobs? Semantics aside, an unforgettable night and an honor to be a part of what brought you back into a @WWE ring!" His message underscored a professional's respect for a compelling storyline, even at his own expense.
The true finale of Cena's career came in his last match against Gunther, the victor of 'The Last Time is Now' tournament. In an explosive showdown that captivated millions, Cena fought valiantly, surviving multiple submission attempts from The Ring General. The end, however, was both poetic and heartbreaking.
Trapped in a final, inescapable sleeper hold, Cena realized his time was up. With a smile on his face, he tapped out, submitting to Gunther. The arena, filled with emotional fans and fellow superstars, erupted in applause for his monumental contributions to sports entertainment. Following tradition, The Champ left his shoes and wristbands in the ring, offering one final salute to the WWE Universe worldwide before walking away.
A Legacy Cemented in Unforgettable Moments
The dual narratives of Cena's farewell—the shocking betrayal at Survivor Series and the dignified submission in his final bout—perfectly encapsulated his career: unpredictable, dramatic, and ultimately respectful of the business. While Liv Morgan's return instantly re-established her as a formidable and unpredictable force, Cena's exit solidified his legacy as a consummate professional who put the show above all else.
These events of late 2025 will be etched in WWE history, not just as the end of an era for John Cena, but as a masterclass in storytelling that seamlessly blended raw emotion with shocking spectacle.
