John Cena Sr. addresses his son tapping out to Gunther at Saturday Night’s Main Event
As seen during Saturday Night’s Main Event on December 13th 2025, John Cena lost to Gunther in his final match by tapping out. While speaking to Bill Apter, John Cena Sr. reacted to his son’s loss…
“Bill, the only thing I can say is that I saw a lot of people cry. Do I believe that’s the way it should have ended? I might have done it differently. I think it might have been better for everyone if it had ended another way.
But you and I have been in the business for a long time, and I guess the unwritten rule is that when you’re going out, you’re going down. So all I can really say is they did what they felt they had to do—what was best for business.
I think Gunther and Cena put on a tremendous show. I thought the match was outstanding. There were a few slow spots for a while, but then it picked right up with that stop-and-go pace. There were several moments where I was amazed both men were still on their feet. That’s how good the match was.
Did I expect a tap out? I’ll be real honest with you, Bill—I would have expected a pass out, with Gunther still being the winner.
It almost reminded me of the Brock Lesnar beating in the long run. They had as much time as they needed, and again, both men did a fabulous job. Gunther did exactly what he was supposed to do. You have to give that man credit—he was the villain, and he played it to the end.
I won’t change my mind, though. As good as Gunther is, I think there could have been somebody else in that spot—whoever it might have been. I don’t think they needed to elevate him to the level he’s been elevated to right now.”