John Cena Returns to WrestleMania After Retirement but There’s a Catch

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John Cena, who bid farewell to his decorated wrestling career in WWE four months ago, returned to WrestleMania but in a different role. He kicked off the two-night WrestleMania 42 event as its host, delivering a speech that elicited strong cheers. Cena’s return marks his first post-retirement appearance following his five-year contract extension with the wrestling promoter. Under the agreement, he would be involved in events as a brand ambassador.

John Cena returns to WrestleMania after retirement

Fans started cheering as John Cena‘s theme song, “You Can’t See Me,” began playing as he entered the auditorium. The retired wrestler and actor, sharply dressed in a navy blue suit with thin white stripes, a light blue evening shirt, a yellow and purple striped tie, and black shoes, soon appeared and smiled, soaking in all the positive energy.

While the music played in the background, the Peacemaker star said, “I know, right? I know,” before adding to an unseen audience member he was looking at that he missed them. “We are not gonna run,” he further stated before looking at the packed audience. “Havin’ fun,” he continued.

Cena then headed for the ring while waving at fans, initially walking quickly before picking up the pace and running. Just before entering, he high-fived and shook hands with some nearby fans.

After entering, he picked up the microphone, looked, and pointed at an unseen fan before pointing to everyone else, as they all chanted. The 48-year-old began his speech, saying, “Wow. I didn’t expect that. Thank you so much.” Clearly nervous about his first time hosting gig, evident in his voice cracking, he told the audience, “Sorry, long-time fan, long-time performer, first-time host.” He subsequently asked how he was doing so far, receiving huge cheers in response.

Quickly becoming calm, he stated that the lead-up to WrestleMania 42 had been chaotic. “It has been unpredictable,” he added. “And from every side, both in here, hell, even back there, and out here, it has been very, very vocal.” Labeling the road to WrestleMania “polarizing,” he remarked, “Now I see why I got the hosting gig. This is the moment I love the most, especially on the road to WrestleMania.”