Rumor killer on John Cena's potential in-ring return outside WWE; update on John Cena Classic tournament
(Courtesy : WWE.com)
The 17-time World Champion is still under contract with WWE.
The 17-time WWE World Champion John Cena wrestled in his final match on the December, 2025 edition of Saturday Night’s Main Event. He suffered defeat in the final match against Gunther and hung up his wrestling boots in what was the final stop on his retirement tour.
Since his retirement, fans have repeatedly speculated about his in-ring return. However, Cena has shot down these rumors repeatedly, stating that he has no plans to return to the ring.
In an interview with US Weekly in June, Cena noted that anyone attempting to convince him to wrestle again would be committing “financial suicide.”
On that note, Fightful Select reports that the 17-time World Champion remains under a multi-year deal with WWE in an ambassador role after his in-ring retirement last year. Additionally, WWE’s position is that Cena would not be contractually permitted to wrestle for another promotion.
Update on John Cena Classic tournament
In his last WWE appearance at Backlash 2026, John Cena announced the ‘John Cena Classic.’ The tournament will showcase main roster stars facing off against NXT talent.
Following the announcement, multiple reports and the 17-time World Champion himself have noted that the tournament is still in the works, but it is not expected to happen anytime soon.
A new report from Fightful Select has provided an update on the tournament. The outlet reported that the Stamford-based promotion is targeting December for the tournament. However, the report noted that the timing remains subject to change.
“WWE is currently targeting December for The John Cena Classic, though the timing remains subject to change.”
Earlier reports have also hinted at December being the target for the promotion, as it makes logistical sense for WWE’s schedule, while also coinciding with the one-year anniversary of Cena’s retirement
Can John Cena wrestle outside WWE after retirement?
No, per Fightful, Cena remains under a multi-year deal with WWE in an ambassador role. The report also adds that WWE’s position is that Cena would not be contractually permitted to wrestle for another promotion.
What is the latest update on John Cena Classic?
Per Fightful, the Stamford-based promotion is targeting December for the tournament. However, the report noted that the timing remains subject to change.
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Abhijit Singh is a budding sports journalist with over three years of experience in the field, and a photographer capturing stories through his lens since 2018. With a background in philosophy and political science, he brings a thoughtful, analytical edge to his reporting where every word is guided by curiosity and intent. Whether he's capturing the emotion of a moment or unpacking the deeper narratives within the game, Abhijit’s work is rooted in insight and passion. When he’s not covering sports, he’s often exploring new ideas through reading, traveling or just procrastinating.