John Cena: How Much WWE Legend Earned Annually Emerges As He Retires From Wrestling

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Washington, D.C. — After more than two decades at the top of professional wrestling, John Cena—one of WWE’s most iconic superstars—officially retired from in-ring competition on December 13, 2025, concluding an illustrious career that spanned nearly 24 years. Cena’s final bout at Saturday Night’s Main Event marked the end of an era for WWE and its global fanbase. The Times of India+1

The Legend Steps Aside

Cena, a 17-time world champion and one of the busiest performers in WWE history, drew massive audiences for years thanks to his “Never Give Up” persona and unmatched work ethic. His retirement match, a symbolic passing of the torch to rising star Gunther, was both a celebration and a poignant moment for fans and fellow superstars alike. The Sun

Though his in-ring career has concluded, Cena’s impact on WWE—and on popular culture—will continue. Reports indicate that he has already signed a five-year ambassadorial contract with WWE, extending his influence beyond active competition. wrestleview.com

Financial Legacy: How Much Cena Earned

While WWE does not publicly release detailed wrestler contracts, multiple reports have shed light on Cena’s remarkable earnings throughout his career:

  • Annual WWE Salary: As of 2025, Cena’s annual WWE earnings are estimated at around $12 million, making him one of the highest-paid performers in the company’s history. This includes base salary, bonuses, and possibly merchandise royalties. The Times of India+1
  • Peak Earnings: Earlier in his career, Cena was documented as the highest-paid WWE star, earning roughly $10 million per year around 2018. Fan Arch
  • Merchandise and Bonuses: Beyond base pay, Cena reportedly received about $500,000 per major event appearance and a 5% cut of his merchandise sales, significant supplements to his yearly income. The Times of India

These figures reflect Cena’s value not just as a performer but as a box-office draw and merchandise powerhouse, consistently contributing to WWE’s bottom line.

Crossover Success Beyond the Ring

Cena’s income wasn’t limited to wrestling alone. His transition into Hollywood and mainstream entertainment amplified his annual earnings:

  • Acting Roles: Cena has starred in major Hollywood films (Fast X, The Suicide Squad, Argyle) and the hit TV series Peacemaker, with reported paychecks ranging from $2 million to $8 million per project, depending on the role and production. Fan Arch
  • Brand Endorsements: Long-standing partnerships with brands like Gillette, Capri Sun, Honda, and others have further boosted his revenue streams. Khel Now

Net Worth and Legacy

Taking all income sources into account, John Cena’s net worth in 2025 is estimated to be around $80 million, placing him among the wealthiest professional wrestlers of all time, second only to global superstar Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. mint+1

Cena’s legacy extends far beyond figures on a paycheck. From breaking records in the ring to becoming a recognizable Hollywood face and world-wide ambassador for WWE, his career earnings tell the story of one of the most successful cross-platform careers in professional wrestling and entertainment history.

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