John Cena WWE Return CONFIRMED! (WWE News)

John Cena officially confirms WWE return ahead of WrestleMania 42.

John Cena is back
WWe

John Cena will return to WWE to host WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas, Nevada, on April 18 and 19 April.

The 17-time World Champion has confirmed as much via social media today, posting a video from the set of his current movie project, One Attempt Remaining.

Per the 48-year-old:

Advertisement
“Ah, retired life in the sun. I’m kidding! Check out the backdrop. I’m shooting a movie for Netflix called ‘One Attempt Remaining’ which you can see when it comes out. I’m also on the road which is ironic cause there’s a road to WrestleMania going on. And, Hollywood is really close to Vegas. Rumor around this town is WrestleMania needs a host. Well, I’m already on that road so I will see you at WrestleMania,”

Cena is fresh off a WWE retirement year that culminated on 13 December 2025. In his final match for the promotion he was once considered the franchise player of, Cena tapped out to Gunther.

What, exactly, the WrestleMania host's role will entail remains to be seen. It's a varied position that could encompass everything from in-ring segments and backstage interactions to simply announcing the night's attendance and moving on - plus everything in between.

Advertisement

Cena had a big role at last year's WrestleMania 41, defeating Cody Rhodes for his 17th World Championship in a controversial main event. Rumour has it that if you visit Allegiant Stadium today, Travis Scott is still there, making his ring entrance.

Later in 2025, Cena enjoyed a brief reign as Intercontinental Champion, winning the belt for the first time in his illustrious career.

Advertisement
Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.