As 2025 unfolds, the wrestling world is bracing for potential farewells. Some of the industry’s biggest names, including WWE and AEW legends, may be nearing the end of their in-ring careers due to age, injuries, or contract situations.
Here’s a look at the top wrestlers likely to retire this year.
John Cena: A Grand Farewell Tour
John Cena, often regarded as one of WWE’s greatest stars, has already confirmed that 2025 will be his final year as an in-ring competitor. Unlike many wrestlers who quietly step away, Cena has been given a rare opportunity to conduct a farewell tour, making this year particularly significant for WWE fans.
Goldberg: A Long-Awaited Retirement Match
Bill Goldberg, a dominant figure in professional wrestling, is also expected to retire in 2025. Reports suggest WWE has planned a final match for him, although the exact event—WrestleMania, SummerSlam, or another premium live event—remains unconfirmed. Goldberg’s impact on the wrestling industry, particularly in WCW and WWE, is undeniable, and his retirement will mark the end of an era.
AJ Styles: Battling Injuries and Career Uncertainty
AJ Styles recently returned at the Royal Rumble, but his career remains uncertain. Although his WWE contract is still active, injuries have plagued him in recent years, raising concerns about his longevity in the ring. There’s speculation that WWE might extend his contract to compensate for injury-related absences, but if Styles suffers another major setback, he may reconsider continuing as an active performer.
Trish Stratus: A Hall of Fame Career Nearing Its End
Trish Stratus, a legend in WWE’s women’s division, has been making sporadic appearances, but the reality is that very few female wrestlers continue competing past 40. WWE’s booking decisions have already hinted that she may not be an active competitor for much longer.
R-Truth: Age Becoming a Factor
At over 50 years old, R-Truth remains a fan favorite, but his in-ring career is winding down. WWE has continued to feature him in entertaining segments, but his retirement from full-time competition seems inevitable. While he may still appear on television, his days as an in-ring performer appear limited.
Christian Cage: AEW’s Veteran Star Nearing Retirement
Christian Cage has revitalized his career in AEW, proving that he still has plenty to offer as a heel. However, given his age and the physically demanding nature of wrestling, it’s likely that 2025 will be his final year as an active competitor.
Chris Jericho: A Legendary Career Approaching Its Final Chapter
Chris Jericho has had a Hall of Fame-worthy career, spanning WWE, AEW, and beyond. Despite his continued presence in AEW, retirement is becoming a realistic possibility. While he remains an influential figure, passing the torch to younger talent could be his next step.
Rey Mysterio: The Perfect Retirement Storyline?
Rey Mysterio, already inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, has done everything there is to do in professional wrestling. A potential retirement match against his son, Dominik Mysterio, could be a fitting end to his legendary career, creating a memorable passing-of-the-torch moment.
Edge (Adam Copeland): AEW Run Nearing Its End
Edge, now competing in AEW as Adam Copeland, has long struggled with injuries, particularly his neck issues. While he has found success outside WWE, his age and physical condition suggest that retirement may be approaching sooner rather than later.
Brock Lesnar: A Quiet Exit from WWE?
Brock Lesnar’s WWE status remains uncertain due to legal issues, making a return unlikely. If he does not return, his last WWE match may have already happened—his victory over Cody Rhodes at SummerSlam 2023. While fans once expected a more definitive farewell, circumstances suggest that Lesnar may have quietly retired.