In a respectful and commendable gesture, WWE Hall of Famer Booker T has announced he will postpone his Reality of Wrestling (ROW) promotion’s “Sub Zero” event, originally slated for Saturday, December 13, 2025, to avoid any date conflict with John Cena’s final WWE match on the same day. This move underscores Booker T’s admiration for Cena’s legendary career and his desire to ensure fans and wrestlers alike can focus on celebrating Cena’s historic send-off without distractions.
John Cena’s Final Match Set for December 13 in Washington, D.C.
The WWE has officially scheduled John Cena’s retirement bout to headline Saturday Night’s Main Event on December 13, 2025, held at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. This event will mark the culmination of Cena’s year-long farewell tour, closing a chapter on a career that has significantly shaped WWE’s modern era[2][4].
Cena’s illustrious wrestling resume includes 17 World Championship titles, five U.S. Championship reigns, and two Royal Rumble victories. His final match is highly anticipated, rumored to be against the imposing former WWE Champion Gunther, creating a fittingly epic finale for Cena’s in-ring career[3][5].
WWE’s Chief Content Officer, Paul “Triple H” Levesque, remarked about Cena’s immeasurable contributions and how the upcoming event will be an unforgettable tribute for both Cena and WWE fans[2][4].
Booker T’s Decision Reflects Respect for WWE Legacy
Booker T’s promotion, Reality of Wrestling, initially planned the “Sub Zero” event for December 13, but understanding the gravity of Cena’s final match, he chose to move the date. According to a source close to Booker T, this decision was driven by a mix of professional respect and a desire to avoid splitting the wrestling audience.
“Booker has always placed respect for the wrestling community above all else,” said a backstage WWE insider. “He knows what John Cena means not just to WWE, but to wrestling as a whole. Moving his event shows his class and prioritization of Cena’s historic moment.”
This adjustment means that ROW’s loyal fans will have full access to Cena’s send-off while still enjoying ROW’s quality wrestling at a later date, maintaining the promotion’s strong relationship with its audience and the wider wrestling industry.
What This Means for Wrestling Fans and the Industry
The overlap of major wrestling events on the same date can often place fans in difficult positions, dividing attention and attendance. Booker T’s considerate rescheduling avoids such conflicts, allowing wrestling fans to fully celebrate Cena’s farewell while still supporting independent wrestling.
Industry insiders suggest this move could encourage other promotions to be mindful of larger WWE events, especially those of significant historical importance, fostering a collaborative atmosphere within the wrestling business.
Details on John Cena’s Farewell Tour Leading to the Final Match
John Cena’s farewell tour has been marked with targeted, high-profile matches that pay homage to his wrestling legacy. Highlights included appearances at major events such as WrestleMania 41, SummerSlam, and Crown Jewel, where Cena secured his 100th premium live event win by defeating long-time rival AJ Styles[3][5].
The final segment of his schedule includes WWE Raw appearances in Boston and New York, a matchup against Dominik Mysterio at Survivor Series, and the grand finale at Saturday Night’s Main Event[3].
Fans can expect a carefully crafted, emotion-filled event in Washington, D.C., with exclusive tickets offering ringside experiences, memorabilia displays, and pre-show hospitality featuring WWE Superstar appearances[2][6].
Anticipation Builds for an Iconic End to a Storied Career
John Cena’s retirement moment is more than just a final match; it’s a historic milestone for WWE and the wrestling world. With the nation’s capital hosting the event, prominent political and entertainment figures are rumored to be attending, highlighting Cena’s far-reaching impact beyond wrestling[5].
Booker T’s respectful postponement of ROW’s event only adds to the growing reverence surrounding Cena’s send-off. It signifies a unifying moment in wrestling where legends and promotions come together to honor one of the industry’s greatest icons.