Mashable: His fans are crying.

WWE icon John Cena declares 2025 retirement; Devastated fans hail the 'GOAT'

During a surprise appearance at the 'Money in the Bank' event in Toronto, WWE legend John Cena, a 16-time WWE Champion, announced his retirement from in-ring competition, effective 2025. The 47-year-old wrestler entered the ring with a towel bearing the altered phrase "The Last Time Is Now," a twist on his iconic catchphrase "My Time Is Now," alongside a shirt labeled "John Cena Farewell Tour." The announcement sparked a fervent reaction from the crowd, chanting "No! No! No!" in response.

It’s Crazy to believe this wrestlemania moment was 12 years ago, You will remain forever in our hearts pic.twitter.com/27N5eOgLBt — Mads (@MadRollins) July 7, 2024

Grateful beyond words…2025 will be full of incredible events around the world. Very much hoping Australia is on the list!  https://t.co/P6CFEqmJWO — John Cena (@JohnCena) July 7, 2024

#ThankYouJohnCena pic.twitter.com/aVrHlq6XC1 — MATT HARDY (@MATTHARDYBRAND) July 8, 2024

"Tonight, I officially announce my retirement from WWE," Cena declared amidst the thunderous cheers and chants. He clarified that while he won't immediately step away, his final matches are planned for 2025, including appearances at the Royal Rumble, Elimination Chamber, and Wrestlemania 41 in Las Vegas at Allegiant Stadium.

the amount of tears i’ll shed at WrestleMania will be enough to cause a tsunami  pic.twitter.com/uAN1xY4JiZ — (@tylerduran21) July 7, 2024

Wow, what a legend! He's had an incredible career, and I'm sure he'll keep entertaining us in other ways after retirement. — sad (@_sad_17) July 7, 2024

Since his debut in 2002, Cena has carved out a storied career in wrestling, engaging in memorable rivalries with wrestling giants like The Rock, Triple H, CM Punk, and Randy Orton.

me watching me watching
John cena at John cena at
the age of 5 the age of 25 pic.twitter.com/0nI0umHXEB —  (@AdamGoldberg28) July 7, 2024

"Thank you so much for allowing me the opportunity to perform in a house that you guys built for so many years," Cena expressed gratefully to the WWE Universe. "Thank you so much for your voice because it's really loud and for your honesty because it's always brutal."

me seeing john cena retire even tho i ain't casually tune in since 2010: pic.twitter.com/6BDx4Syguu — ⊹ (@htvzn) July 7, 2024

Undisputed greatest of all time.

Thank you John Cena. pic.twitter.com/Sa7fUHTCYU —  Deonte DDJ (@deonteddj) July 7, 2024

I'm not ready for this — (@BINGCHILLING29u) July 7, 2024

Beyond wrestling, Cena has made significant strides in the entertainment industry, featuring in films such as "The Suicide Squad," "Fast X," and "The Independent," among others.

Cena's announcement marks a poignant moment for WWE fans worldwide, as they anticipate bidding farewell to one of wrestling's most iconic figures in the coming years.