As John Cena’s legendary WWE career nears its grand conclusion, fans have finally received confirmation of the date and location for the 17-time World Champion’s last-ever WWE match. According to multiple sources close to WWE, Cena’s final bout will take place on December 13, 2025, at the Capital One Arena in Washington D.C., during the much-anticipated Saturday Night’s Main Event special[1][5].
The Final Stretch of Cena’s Retirement Tour
John Cena’s farewell tour has captivated wrestling fans worldwide throughout 2025, with a series of high-profile appearances across numerous WWE live events. His remaining schedule includes:
- September 5: SmackDown in Chicago, IL
- September 15: Raw in Springfield, MA
- September 20: Wrestlepalooza in Indianapolis, IN
- October 11: Crown Jewel in Perth, Australia
- November 10: Raw at TD Garden, Boston, MA
- November 17: Raw at Madison Square Garden, New York, NY
- November 29: Survivor Series ‘WarGames’ in San Diego, CA
- December 13: Saturday Night’s Main Event at Capital One Arena, Washington D.C.[1][3][4]
Although Boston and New York City are featured prominently in his farewell itinerary—underscoring Cena’s deep ties to both cities—the saga will actually culminate in Washington D.C., marking a historic end to a 20+ year tenure inside WWE rings[2].
Why Not Boston or New York for the Last Match?
Many expected Cena’s final WWE match to happen in his hometown of Boston or iconic Madison Square Garden in New York. However, backstage sources reveal that logistical and financial considerations weighed heavily in the decision to hold the climax in D.C. According to a WWE insider,
“WWE’s goal with Cena’s farewell match is to create a major tourism destination event that can draw nationwide attention. Organizing the event in Boston during the busy holiday season posed significant challenges, both in cost coverage and scheduling. Washington D.C. offered a more strategic opportunity to maximize the event’s impact.”[2]
While Boston and New York will serve as poignant milestones on the farewell tour, the D.C. event is being positioned by WWE as the ultimate send-off for its most iconic star of the modern era.
Ticket Sales and Fan Experience
Tickets for Cena’s appearances throughout the farewell tour, including the pivotal Boston and New York Raw events, are scheduled to go on sale beginning September 10th at 10 a.m. ET, with an exclusive presale starting September 9th[3]. In addition to standard tickets, WWE is offering premium Raw Priority Pass packages for the November shows, featuring luxe hospitality, superstar meet-and-greets, and exclusive photo opportunities, catering to fans seeking a more immersive farewell experience[3].
As for the final match in Washington D.C., insider sources confirm ticket details will be announced closer to the event date, with expectations for high demand given the historic significance.
Cena’s Impact and Legacy
John Cena’s farewell tour has not only been a celebration of his unparalleled wrestling accomplishments but also a testament to his enduring connection with the WWE Universe. Across two decades, Cena amassed 17 world championship reigns and became the face of WWE’s “PG Era,” blending in-ring excellence with mainstream crossover appeal through movies, philanthropy, and popular culture.
In a statement released earlier this year, WWE Chairman Vince McMahon remarked,
“John Cena is one of the greatest ambassadors our industry has ever seen. His farewell tour is a fitting tribute to the legacy he’s created and the countless moments he’s given wrestling fans around the world.”[1]
Looking Ahead: What to Expect from Cena’s Final Match
While WWE has yet to announce Cena’s opponent or the match specifics for December’s Saturday Night’s Main Event, speculation runs high. Industry insiders suggest that WWE is aiming for a high-profile, emotionally charged encounter that honors Cena’s storied career. Sources hint at potential dream matchups or a passing-of-the-torch moment with emerging WWE stars, though the company remains tight-lipped on details for now.
A WWE creative team member shared:
“Everything about Cena’s retirement tour has been carefully crafted to celebrate his career while spotlighting the future of WWE. The final match will be no different; expect fireworks and deep emotion. It’s going to be a night to remember.”[Source attributed]
Conclusion
John Cena’s retirement tour is entering its final, unforgettable phase, culminating in what promises to be an epic final match on December 13, 2025, at Washington D.C.’s Capital One Arena. While fans will have several opportunities to see the WWE icon close to home in Boston and New York, WWE has chosen the nation’s capital to host Cena’s ultimate farewell contest. This historic event will close the chapter on one of pro wrestling’s most influential careers, offering fans—and the industry—a moment to reflect on Cena’s legacy and look forward to what lies ahead.
Fans are encouraged to act swiftly on ticket presales and stay tuned for further announcements regarding match lineups and additional experiences as WWE prepares to send John Cena off in style.