5 Clear signs that John Cena retired for real at WWE Saturday Night's Main Event

The 17-time WWE Champion John Cena has officially retired from professional wrestling, and fans won't see him return to compete in the squared circle. However, retirements in pro wrestling often see many legends from the past return to compete again. The list includes names like Ric Flair, Shawn Michaels, and more.

But things are a bit different with The Cenation Leader, and his retirement may never be revoked. He is retired for real at Saturday Night's Main Event XLII.

In this article, we will take a look at five clear signs that indicate The Cenation Leader has retired.

#5. Putting over the former WWE World Heavyweight Champion

Losing his retirement match to Gunther isn't a big highlight, but The Ring General ending it with his signature Sleeper Choke is, breaking Cena's lifelong motto of "Never Give Up."

This served as a perfect passing-of-the-torch moment for the former champion, as Cena put him over, tarnishing his wrestling gimmick, which also hints that John is done with in-ring competition, since he has finally given up his gimmick.

#4. Post-match festivities

After The Cenation Leader lost his final contest against the Austarian superstar, he received an emotional and festive reception from fans and fellow superstars.

Both champions, CM Punk and Cody Rhodes, came out and handed their titles to Cena, honoring his legendary career. Also, nearly every superstar teared up, which strongly suggests that the Chain Gang Soldier has retired and won't return.

#3. Theme of the show

The entire Saturday Night's Main Event XLII was based on John Cena's retirement. It was the theme of the show, where the Stamford-based promotion played multiple vignettes showcasing iconic moments from Cena's career and other stars paying tribute to him.

The company paid homage to the 17-time WWE champions' in-ring career, which hints that his run as a pro wrestler is over.

#2. John Cena is a man of his word

The Cenation Leader is well known for keeping his word, and he has made it clear that once he's done, he's done. His retirement is final and not fluid like other superstars.

The Chain Gang Soldier has also revealed that his body is slowing down, which is the main reason he's stepping away from WWE.

#1. The icon has been moved to the alumni page

The Stamford-based promotion immediately moved the 17-time champion to WWE's alumni section.

Hinting that his current deal with the company is over and that his career as an in-ring talent has ended. This is another major indication that John's retirement isn't a fluke and that he has permanently retired.

Read all the hottest WWE news from Sportskeeda by choosing us as your preferred source. Click HERE.

Edited by Neda Ali