As one of the most iconic figures in professional wrestling history prepares to step into the ring for the last time, WWE has announced ticket pricing for John Cena’s farewell match, and the numbers are staggering. Scheduled for December 13, 2025, at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., Cena’s retirement bout promises to be one of the most lucrative and highly anticipated events the company has ever hosted. However, fans looking for front-row action will need to brace themselves—ticket prices for premium seats have reached unprecedented levels.
Unprecedented Ticket Prices for a Legendary Goodbye
WWE and On Location have released the official ticket packages, showing a spectrum of pricing that has shocked even the most die-hard wrestling enthusiasts. Among the steepest are the ultra-premium “TV side ringside” seats in the front row (Row A), which go for $11,500 each. The second-row seats on the ramp side (Row B) aren’t much cheaper, priced at $9,500. Even seats a little further back — the fifth row on the ramp side (Row E) — will cost fans a hefty $6,500 per ticket[1][2].
Standard tickets range anywhere from $250 on the lower end to about $3,000, reflecting the massive demand and WWE’s desire to capitalize on Cena’s legacy. This pricing places Cena’s farewell among some of the priciest wrestling events in history, a clear indication of how much WWE values this milestone moment.
Why Such Insane Pricing?
According to sources inside WWE, the company views Cena’s retirement match as a once-in-a-lifetime spectral event deserving premium pricing. A WWE insider explained to Ringside News, “John Cena isn’t just another superstar; he’s the face of WWE for nearly two decades. This final match isn’t just an event – it’s a legacy moment WWE is packaging as a spectacle, and the pricing reflects that unique opportunity for fans to witness history live.”[3]
The strategic pricing follows how WWE has generally treated “legacy” events, which often command higher ticket prices due to their rarity and emotional pull. The chosen venue, Capital One Arena, and the event being a Saturday Night’s Main Event taping add more allure, justifying the steep costs from a production and experience standpoint.
Fan Reactions: Excitement Mixed with Outrage
The ticket price reveal has polarized the WWE fanbase. Many are thrilled to have the chance to see a 17-time world champion step into the ring for the last time and are willing to make the financial sacrifice. “This is a piece of wrestling history, and if I can swing the price, I’ll be there,” commented one longtime fan on social media.
However, there is also significant pushback from fans who view these prices as exploitative. Critics argue the cost alienates average fans, turning a historic moment into a luxury commodity. Some vocal fans described the pricing as “price gouging” and raised concerns about WWE’s growing disconnect with its grassroots audience[1].
How Do These Prices Compare Historically?
To put things in perspective, previous major WWE events like WrestleMania have also featured high ticket prices, but Cena’s farewell match pricing for front-row seats is among the highest ever recorded for a single-show WWE event. This reflects WWE’s confidence that Cena’s brand alone can drive demand at such premium levels.
For comparison:
| Event | Front Row Price Range (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| WrestleMania 39 (2023) | $1,000 – $4,000+ |
| John Cena Final Match | $6,500 – $11,500+ |
The jump is considerable, highlighting WWE’s effort to turn Cena’s last bow into a blockbuster event with a potentially lucrative financial impact[1].
What This Means for WWE and Its Fanbase
Cena’s final match is undeniably a major WWE milestone, but the ticket pricing trend raises critical questions about accessibility and fan engagement. WWE’s focus on premium experiences can boost short-term revenue but risks alienating fans unable to afford these prices.
Industry experts suggest WWE might be testing how far they can push premium wrestling events to offset competition from emerging wrestling promotions and streaming services. However, one source close to WWE’s talent group shared, “There’s a balance WWE wants — honoring Cena’s legacy while not shutting out the hard-core fanbase that built that legacy. The pricing is high, but there’s talk internally about how to keep more affordable options available digitally or through secondary markets.”[3]
When Can Fans Buy Tickets?
Tickets for John Cena’s farewell match will officially go on sale to the public via Ticketmaster on October 17, 2025, with presales starting two days earlier on October 15. Given the hype and limited seating, these tickets are expected to sell out quickly, especially the premium packages that offer the best viewing experience and exclusivity[1].
Final Thoughts
John Cena’s final WWE match marks the end of an era, and WWE is sparing no expense in turning it into a spectacular event. The ticket prices reflect both the legendary stature of Cena and the company’s willingness to capitalize on this cultural moment. While the pricing has sparked debate, there’s no denying the significant buzz this event is generating.
For fans who can secure those coveted front-row seats, it won’t just be a wrestling event—it will be a historic chapter closing in the life of one of WWE’s most unforgettable superstars. For those watching at home or in more affordable seats, the event promises to be a wrestling spectacle not to miss.