John Cena has made it clear that on December 13, 2025, is the last time he’ll ever compete inside a WWE ring. Whether he sticks to that promise remains to be seen, but what is certain is that his final opponent, Gunther, is coming in with a very specific mission, one that could end one of Cena’s proudest records.
Gunther’s Road Back to the Spotlight
After a short hiatus following surgery, the “Ring General” made a strong return to WWE. He stepped back into action on November 17, taking on Je’Von Evans in the opening round of the Last Time Is Now tournament.
From there, Gunther dominated the field, beating three more superstars and ultimately winning the entire tournament. That victory earned him the right to face Cena in what might be the most emotionally charged match of the year Cena’s final bout.
Gunther Reveals His Limited Backstage Interactions with Cena
Speaking on The Rich Eisen Show, Gunther opened up about his surprisingly minimal relationship with the 17-time world champion. Despite being in the same company for years, the two have barely crossed paths.
“I can count on one hand… maybe I shook his hand three times, said hello, that’s all the interaction I had with him so far. But I think that’s interesting.”
Gunther admitted this lack of familiarity creates a unique challenge. He usually knows his opponents well. But with Cena, it’s almost like preparing for a stranger who just happens to be one of the biggest stars in wrestling history.
Cena’s Untouchable Streak on the Line
One stat Cena proudly carries into this match? He hasn’t tapped out in nearly 20 years. The last time he submitted was all the way back on October 24, 2005, in a match against Kurt Angle. Since then, Cena has powered through everything locks, holds, cranks, and chokes without ever signaling defeat.
That streak means everything heading into Saturday Night’s Main Event. And Gunther knows exactly what he wants to do.
Gunther’s Goal: Make Cena Tap
Gunther has become dangerous not just because of his powerbomb, but thanks to a growing arsenal of submissions. He’s choked out opponents, crushed necks with cravat holds, and forced top stars like LA Knight in the tournament final to submit.
And on Saturday? Cena could be next.
“I’m looking for him to give up, to admit he can’t go no more. That’s what I’m going to go for.” Gunther believes breaking Cena’s legendary streak is where the real drama lies and he’s not hiding it.
A Final Chapter with High Stakes
With Cena on the verge of retirement and Gunther gunning (literally) to force a tap-out that hasn’t happened in two decades, this match is shaping up to be far more than just a farewell moment. It’s legacy versus legacy. Pride versus dominance and one man’s streak could end the moment another man’s career does.
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