WWE reportedly planning to have John Cena's retirement match going head-to-head with AEW Worlds End 2025

Blesson has been a part of Khel Now since 2023, he covers Combat Sports & Gaming.

Published at :August 14, 2025 at 3:29 PM

Modified at :August 14, 2025 at 3:29 PM

(Courtesy : WWE)

WWE planning to go head-to-head with another AEW PLE!

WWE could be setting the stage for one of the most high-profile showdowns of the year and it won’t happen in the ring. According to Bryan Alvarez of Wrestling Observer Live, John Cena’s long-awaited retirement match may be moved to directly compete with AEW’s year-end pay-per-view, Worlds End, on December 27, 2025.

Originally, WWE was targeting early December for the match, possibly during Saturday Night’s Main Event. However, internal discussions have reportedly shifted toward making Cena’s farewell a head-to-head ratings and ticket battle with AEW’s final PPV of the year.

WWE is reportedly planning for John Cena's retirement match to go head-to-head with AEW Worlds End. "Originally, the final John Cena match was gonna be in early December at Saturday Night's Main Event. This is not confirmed, but it does look like there is now a discussion that… pic.twitter.com/Erp9JhqpJj
— Cultaholic Wrestling (@Cultaholic) August 14, 2025

WWE’s scheduling strategy to counter AEW

If the move is finalized, it wouldn’t be the only time WWE and AEW go toe-to-toe over Cena. Dave Meltzer reported that WWE plans for Brock Lesnar to face Cena in Indianapolis on September 20, the same date AEW is running All Out in Toronto.

This strategy mirrors WWE’s recent competitive approach, using major star power to draw audiences away from AEW events. Cena’s farewell tour, one of the most talked-about storylines in wrestling, could be the ultimate weapon in this rivalry.

Boston is still the fore-front runner to hold John Cena’s retirement match

Earlier this summer, Cena revealed to the New York Post that his final match would likely take place in mid-December, though the location had yet to be confirmed. The 17-time World Champion’s hometown of Boston, Massachusetts has emerged as the leading candidate, with the TD Garden in contention to host the historic night.

Boston-based outlet WCVB reported that the city is the front-runner, and Sports Illustrated noted that WWE even opened bidding to other cities for the honor. With Cena born and raised in nearby West Newbury, a Boston farewell would provide an emotional setting for his send-off.

For now, the only certainty is that WWE sees Cena’s retirement as a must-see spectacle and possibly a powerful tool in their ongoing battle with AEW.

When is John Cena’s retirement match expected to take place?

While initially planned for early December, reports suggest WWE may move the match to December 27, 2025, to directly compete with AEW Worlds End.

Where will Cena’s final match be held?

Boston’s TD Garden is currently the favorite, though WWE has reportedly opened bidding to other cities.

Who is John Cena rumored to face in his retirement match?

While not officially confirmed, Cena is set to face Brock Lesnar in September, making him a possible contender for the final match as well.

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Blesson

Blesson Daniel is a sub-editor who spends his days organizing words and managing social media, crafting bursts of creativity designed to make people smile. He occasionally dives into writing as well — whether it’s crafting articles, brainstorming ideas, or finding the perfect caption. Believing that every piece of writing offers an opportunity to tell a story, Blesson brings creativity and thoughtfulness to every project he takes on. When he’s not glued to his laptop, Blesson is likely planning his next travel adventure or losing himself in music. A passionate explorer of new places, sounds, and ideas, he believes in balancing work, play, and a good playlist in the background. Whether he’s editing, writing, or daydreaming about his next trip, Blesson is always chasing that sweet spot where creativity and curiosity collide to create something memorable.