John Cena believes the current WWE roster is the most talented he’s ever seen, and he says he is ready to pass the torch to the next generation of superstars as his career winds down next month. While appearing on ESPN’s First Take, Cena praised the company’s current standing, both in its business relationships and its in-ring talent.
“The State of the Union right now is fantastic with relationships. We’re finally in the ESPN family. Never did I think I’d be able to sit here and be welcomed into the ESPN family. This has been great. I’ve been on Wrestlepalooza, been on Crown Jewel, and we’ve got Survivor Series coming up in San Diego, November 29. You don’t want to miss that. That’s my last appearance on ESPN. Really excited about it, but there’s never been a better time to be in the WWE, and that’s from its relationships in the lens and its roster on the field. I think we have the most gifted and the biggest batch of gifted personnel in the ring. They’re doing stuff right now I could never possibly think of, which is why it’s time for me to walk away.”
Cena, 48, explained that while he still feels good physically, his 23-year career has been demanding, and he wants to leave while he is still performing at a high level.
“I still, I still got a little bit left in the tank, as you saw in those highlights, I’m 48. I still look good, I still feel good. I have my health, but, man, I’ve been in it for 23 years and operating at a very high capacity and a very high level, and I really want to pave the way for the future. And I’d rather go now and leave the memories of the audience of like man, he always gave his all, then risk doing bad work.”
He concluded by reiterating his confidence in the superstars who will carry the company forward after he is gone. “I want to be invisible for a few more times. And that’s it. It’s been, it’s been a great year. I’m very happy to be able to pass the torch on what I think is an extremely capable class of men and women.”
Cena’s final run is already in progress. He is scheduled to make his final appearance on Monday Night Raw tonight, November 17, from Madison Square Garden. The “Last Time is Now” tournament to determine his final opponent continues on the show, with GUNTHER returning from injury to face Je’Von Evans, and Solo Sikoa taking on a mystery opponent. Cena, who recently became a Grand Slam Champion by winning the Intercontinental Championship, will have his last-ever match at WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event on December 13 in Washington, D.C..
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article please credit ESPN First Take with a h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription.
John Cena says the current roster is the most talented he’s ever seen & he is ready to pass the torch next month to the next generation of superstars 🐐
(First Take)
— FADE (@FadeAwayMedia) November 17, 2025
