John Cena quitting WWE after getting hurt and 2 directions he might take following Wrestlepalooza
Wrestlepalooza 2025, ESPN’s first-ever WWE premium live event, opened with a blockbuster match between John Cena and Brock Lesnar.
Making his long-awaited return, The Beast Incarnate dominated from bell to bell, hitting multiple F5s and decisively defeating Cena. The crushing loss has raised serious questions about what lies ahead for the 17-time World Champion as he approaches the end of his farewell tour.
Here are two possible directions Cena’s WWE story might take next:
MESSAGE. SENT.
— WWE (@WWE) September 20, 2025
Brock Lesnar just DESTROYED John Cena at #Wrestlepalooza!
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😔 #2. John Cena could walk away sooner than expected
Before their clash, Brock Lesnar vowed to retire Cena — and after this devastating defeat, that threat may become reality.
Cena might even post a heartfelt message on social media, admitting that his body has not fully recovered since his brutal SummerSlam battle with Cody Rhodes. Combined with Lesnar’s destruction, he may feel it’s time to step away earlier than planned.
Such a decision would be a shocking, emotional end to a farewell run meant to celebrate his legendary career.
🔥 #1. One last rematch against Brock Lesnar at Crown Jewel: Perth
WWE might not want Cena’s story to close with such a one-sided loss. Instead, creative could build toward a high-stakes rematch at Crown Jewel: Perth 2025.
This bout could come with added stipulations — perhaps career vs. career — giving Cena a chance at redemption while making the clash feel monumental.
If this happens, fans would witness a fitting final chapter between two of WWE’s most dominant icons.
✅ Whether John Cena quietly bows out now or battles back for one last fight, his farewell tour has taken an unpredictable turn. The WWE Universe may be about to witness a shocking twist in the final chapter of The Franchise Player’s legendary career.
