Hours before John Cena steps into the ring for the final time at Saturday Night's Main Event in Washington, D.C., the wrestling world has united to honor the 17-time World Champion. His peers, rivals, and friends have flooded social media with heartfelt messages celebrating a career that has defined professional wrestling for over two decades.

WWE broadcaster Michael Cole says it’s been the honor of a lifetime calling Cena’s matches.

The Rock paid homage to his one-time rival, declaring, “John Cena, you are the GOAT. Go have f*cking fun, and tear that house down.”

Triple H, WWE's Chief Content Officer, reflected on their long history together: "So many incredible in-ring moments over the last 20+ years…let's make the final one tonight!"

Cody Rhodes, the current Undisputed WWE Champion who defeated Cena at WrestleMania 41 earlier this year, shared a photo of himself with Cena alongside the hashtag #ThankYouCena.

Ric Flair seems to have forgiven Cena for surpassing his former record of 16 world title reigns. Flair reveals that Vince McMahon prevented Cena from hanging out with Flair on the road. “.@JohnCena, You Have Represented The WWE, Our Business, Our Brand. Congratulations On A Phenomenal Retirement! Good Luck Tonight Man! I Will Make Sure The World Is Watching, Well At Least In Tampa! Please Know That You’re One Of A Kind, And It Will Be Light Years Before Anyone Replaces You. Even Though Vince Put An End To Us Hanging Out Together On The Road, You Will Be A Hero To A Lot Of Us Forever! Kick Ass & Never Look Back! WOOOOO!”

Kurt Angle referenced their famous 2002 exchange that launched Cena's career. "Who in the hell are you? I'm John Cena," he began, before adding: "From his unforgettable moments in the ring to his inspiring presence outside of it, John Cena has truly left an indelible mark on the world of sports entertainment. I am proud to have been part of his journey, and what a ride it has been for him. His dedication, resilience, and passion have inspired countless fans and peers alike. As he embarks on his well-deserved retirement, I wish him all the best in the next chapter of his life. Enjoy your last ride, John....a legend forever. Welcome to retirement, my friend."

Paul Heyman also joined the tributes, as did Booker T, who wrote: "Tonight, we pay tribute to one of the greatest performers ever inside the ring—and one of the biggest superstars this business has ever seen outside of it. Tonight, we celebrate hustle, loyalty, and respect. We salute a man whose legacy defines an era and whose impact will last forever. One of the very best to ever lace up a pair of boots… John Cena."

Stu Bennett (Wade Barrett), Cena's former Nexus rival turned WWE commentator, shared his appreciation while "counting down the hours until what will be a historic night for our industry."

Frankie Kazarian offered a unique perspective, having trained alongside Cena at the very beginning: "It was my honor and privilege to be a part of the beginning of John Cena's journey in 2001. Be it training with, wrestling against, road trips, or just becoming friends. His work ethic was always second to none. His attitude his best asset."

Tonight at Capital One Arena, Cena faces Gunther in what will be the final chapter of an in-ring career that produced 17 world championships, countless iconic moments, and a legacy that transcends professional wrestling. The outpouring of respect from across the industry proves that even those who battled against Cena recognize what he's meant to the business.

The time is now—for the last time.