**John Cena Reflects on Wrestling Career as New Film Approaches Streaming Release**
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John Cena, the former professional wrestler turned Hollywood actor, recently opened up about his feelings towards his wrestling career during the New York City premiere of his latest film, *Matchbox: The Movie*, held on October 5, 2026. The film is set to begin streaming on Apple TV on October 9, 2026.
At 49 years of age and with a distinguished history spanning over two decades in WWE, Cena hung up his wrestling boots in December 2025. Speaking to reporters, including PEOPLE, he expressed a sense of nostalgia for his time in the ring. “I have moments of nostalgic reflection on the daily,” Cena shared, recalling the simpler times from his early wrestling days in the early 2000s. “A lot of times, that’s when you’re overwhelmed by stress or confused… Nostalgia is in itself looking back to a simpler time in the unknown or during crisis.”
Cena’s wrestling journey saw him achieve remarkable heights, including being a 17-time WWE world champion. Although he hosted WrestleMania 42 in April this year, Cena has firmly closed the chapter on his competitive wrestling career. “I miss performing every single day,” he confessed, acknowledging the magnetic pull of his past, whilst also reiterating that the decision to retire was the right one for him.
The wrestler-turned-actor had made the announcement regarding his retirement from WWE in July 2024. Prior to stepping away from the ring, he had been successfully balancing both his acting career and wrestling duties. In 2025, Cena returned to a full-time schedule with WWE, touring internationally and even making headlines by turning heel for the first time in nearly two decades at a February Elimination Chamber event alongside Dwayne Johnson. He later celebrated a triumphant return to form, regaining his spot as a fan favourite by clinching his record-breaking championship.
Reflecting on his beginnings, Cena recalled his first match against wrestling icon Kurt Angle in 2002, a moment that served as a significant milestone in his career. Although he lost that match, he became one of WWE’s most celebrated personalities over the years. “You can’t have the entire book without the first sentence,” Cena remarked, illustrating the importance of that initial encounter. “That is the landmark moment that comes to mind, is the second I got to walk out through the curtain in Chicago.”
Despite his retirement from in-ring action, Cena has expressed a desire to stay connected to the WWE, stating his intention to remain involved “with the WWE family moving forward and in perpetuity” in a mentoring capacity.
In his latest cinematic venture, *Matchbox: The Movie*, Cena shares the screen with a star-studded cast, including Jessica Biel and Danai Gurira. This action-packed film, inspired by the iconic Matchbox car toy brand, is expected to appeal to a wide array of audiences looking for thrilling entertainment.
Outside of his film work, Cena has recently appeared in projects such as *Coyote vs. Acme* and *Little Brother*, showcasing his versatility in the industry and further establishing himself as a leading man in Hollywood.
As Cena embarks on this new chapter of his career, he appears content with his transition away from wrestling, yet his reflections reveal a deep-seated connection to the sport that made him a household name. While fans might long for his return to the ring, Cena’s current focus is on his flourishing acting career and his role in shaping the next generation of wrestlers.
As *Matchbox: The Movie* gears up for its streaming debut, both old and new fans alike are eager to see Cena shine in this new medium, while his wrestling legacy continues to resonate.