John Cena Confirms Iconic Jorts Are Retired After WWE Exit

John Cena has once again made his retirement from in-ring competition clear, explaining why his recent WWE appearances have featured T-shirts and cargo shorts instead of his familiar jorts. The 17-time world champion has returned to WWE television in a non-wrestling role, but he insists that his iconic wrestling gear is retired along with his in-ring career.

John Cena Confirms His Iconic Jorts Are Retired

Since returning to WWE television, Cena has changed his appearance several times. The Cenation Leader wore a suit while hosting WrestleMania 42 and later appeared in formal attire at Backlash to announce the John Cena Classic Tournament. However, his recent appearances on RAW and NXT have featured a more familiar combination of T-shirts and shorts.

Speaking to Rick Ucchino of The Takedown on SI, the 49-year-old WWE icon clarified that the shorts he has been wearing are cargo shorts, not the denim jorts associated with his wrestling career.

Cena also pointed out that he has stopped wearing several elements of his traditional ring attire, including wristbands, a towel and knee pads. He made it clear that fans should not interpret his casual appearance as a sign of an in-ring comeback.

“Those weren’t jorts in Brooklyn, and they weren’t jorts on NXT. I’m wearing cargo shorts. I’m not wearing any wristbands, I don’t have a towel, and I don’t have any knee pads. So, when I said the jorts are retired, the f***ing jorts are retired.”

His comments reinforce the distinction between his current appearances as a WWE personality and his former role as an active competitor. Although Cena continues to be involved in WWE programming, he has reiterated that his wrestling days are over.

Why John Cena Initially Returned Wearing Suits

Cena explained that his decision to wear suits during his initial appearances was an attempt to avoid confusing WWE fans about his retirement. He wanted his appearance to communicate that he was no longer preparing for another match.

However, the strategy did not produce the result he expected. Fans continued chanting for one more match, showing that his clothing choices were not enough to stop speculation about a possible return to the ring.

“I don’t wanna confuse the consumer. If I show up in dress shoes in a suit with a pocket watch, hopefully the consumer isn’t gonna think one more match. John’s not really done. That didn’t work. They still chanted one more match. And I love wearing suits. Also, Cody Rhodes gets beat up in suits. So, the one thing I was trying to accomplish was really murky,” he said.

His remarks also included a humorous reference to Cody Rhodes, who has often been involved in physical confrontations while wearing formal clothing. Cena ultimately returned to a more relaxed style, but stressed that his change of wardrobe should not be mistaken for a change in retirement plans.

Gunther Match Remains John Cena’s Final In-Ring Appearance

John Cena’s Saturday Night’s Main Event match against Gunther remains the final contest of his legendary in-ring career. The match marked the conclusion of an era for one of WWE’s most recognisable performers.

Despite his retirement from competition, Cena continues to appear on WWE television and contribute to ongoing storylines. His involvement in the John Cena Classic has also given him a new way to remain connected with the company and its roster without returning to active competition.

Charlotte Flair Receives Invitation to John Cena Classic

During the SmackDown episode following Crown Jewel, Cena invited Charlotte Flair to participate in the John Cena Classic, scheduled for December 14, 2026.

Flair thanked Cena for believing in her during a difficult period when she had struggled to believe in herself and had considered leaving WWE. The emotional exchange highlighted the respect between the two stars.

Cena also explained why winning his 17th WWE World Championship had been so important to him. He said he wanted to shake hands with the person who eventually breaks his record, identifying Charlotte Flair as the person he had in mind.

Later in the show, Cena welcomed Fatal Influence into the John Cena Classic after the trio complained about Flair receiving an invitation. Their inclusion added another development to the tournament storyline.

Charlotte Flair Sets Her Sights on the Tournament

Following her invitation, Flair made it clear that she intends to win the Women’s John Cena Classic belt. The opportunity gives the Queen another major objective as she continues her run in WWE.

Before the tournament, however, Flair has another important responsibility. She is set to lead the babyface side against Team Cargill at WWE Survivor Series: WarGames.

While Cena’s continued appearances may keep fans hoping for another match, his latest comments leave little room for confusion. He remains involved in WWE television, but his final match against Gunther continues to stand as the end of his in-ring career.