John Cena returns to WWE stage just months after his retirement

John Cena could not stay away from professional wrestling as he made his comeback to the WWE stage in less than five months after retirement.

For those unaware, the 48-year-old professional wrestler and actor played his final WWE match against Gunther on December 13, 2025, at Saturday Night's Main Event in Washington, D.C. He lost the game that marked the end of his 24-year career.

On Saturday, April 18, 2026, Cena went to the ring at WrestleMania; however, he returned as a host this time. The 42nd annual WrestleMania, a two-day event which took place at Las Vegas’ Allegiant Stadium, will end on April 19, 2026.

While his entrance theme, The Time is Now, played, the 17-time WWE world champion walked to the stage. The crowd cheers followed him all the way until he started the 42nd annual WrestleMania.

Cena commenced the event by saying, “Wow I didn't expect that. Thank you so much,” adding, “Sorry, long-time fan, long-time performer, first-time host. How am I doing so far?”

Referring to people’s different opinions about this year’s WrestleMania, he quipped, “Now I see why I got the hosting gig. This is the moment I love the most, especially on the road to WrestleMania.”

Cena stated, “We're all in here for the same reason because we know the time to talk is up, the time to deliver is now, and we are all here with one thing on our minds: ‘Who tonight will step up and deliver?'”

Audience once again started cheering louder while he admitted, “It is such a great honor.”

“Ladies and gentlemen, and everyone watching around the world, welcome to WrestleMania!” Cena officially started the event by saying.