International

Wrestling Icon John Cena Retires After 23 Legendary Years in the Ring


John Cena, one of the most celebrated superstars in professional wrestling history, has officially retired after an illustrious 23-year career inside the ring. The 17-time world champion fought his final match, bringing down the curtain on an era that shaped modern wrestling and inspired generations of fans worldwide.

Known for his unmatched work ethic, charisma, and resilience, Cena became the face of WWE during a defining period of its global expansion. From championship triumphs and iconic rivalries to unforgettable promos and record-breaking moments, Cenaโ€™s legacy extends far beyond titles and accolades.

Following his retirement, tributes poured in from across the wrestling world. WWE legends The Undertaker and Dwayne โ€œThe Rockโ€ Johnson publicly honoured Cena, praising not only his achievements but also his character. The Rock shared a heartfelt message, saying, โ€œI just donโ€™t know anyone who better embodies the phrase: โ€˜Itโ€™s good to be important, but itโ€™s more important to be good.โ€™ Congratulations on an incredible career, my friend.โ€

Beyond wrestling, Cena has also made a successful transition into acting and philanthropy, becoming one of the most recognised faces in global entertainment while continuing to inspire through his charitable work.

As fans bid farewell to his in-ring career, John Cena leaves behind a legacy defined by perseverance, humility, and excellenceโ€”one that will continue to influence wrestling and popular culture for years to come.

Sports

Hulk Hogan, Wrestling Legend and Pop Culture Icon, Dies at 71


Written by Tanisha Cardozo

โ€œWhatcha gonna do, brother, when Hulkamania runs wild on you?โ€
For millions, it was more than a catchphrase โ€” it was a movement.

Hulk Hogan, one of the most recognizable faces in sports entertainment, died on July 24, 2025, in Florida at age 71. Born Terry Gene Bollea, Hogan became the heart of WWE during its boom in the 1980s and helped transform pro wrestling into a global phenomenon.

With his handlebar mustache, bandana, red and yellow gear, and enormous biceps he called his โ€œ24-inch pythons,โ€ Hogan built a persona that transcended wrestling. He headlined the first WrestleMania in 1985, feuded with giants like Andre the Giant and Randy Savage, and teamed with Mr. T in matches that turned athletic theater into global spectacle.

His charisma, dramatic promos, and shirt-ripping theatrics made Hulkamania a household term.

Beyond the Ring

Hogan starred in Hollywood roles such as Thunderlips in Rocky III, and brought his life to the small screen in Hogan Knows Best on VH1. He also crossed into political territory, controversially endorsing Donald Trump during the 2024 Republican National Convention, shouting, โ€œLet Trumpamania run wild!โ€

But his path wasnโ€™t without missteps. In 2015, he was removed from WWEโ€™s Hall of Fame after a leaked tape revealed him using racial slurs. He apologized and was reinstated in 2018. A high-profile lawsuit against Gawker in 2016 led to a $140M jury award, though it later settled for less after the media company filed for bankruptcy.

Despite the scandals, fans never let go of the image of the all-American hero who tore his shirt and rallied crowds with sheer energy.

Still Giving Back

Even in his final year, Hogan remained connected to wrestling, becoming commissioner of the Real American Freestyle league โ€” a new, unscripted wrestling format set to debut in August 2025. He saw it as a way to mentor a new generation of wrestlers and continue evolving the sport he helped define.

Final Farewell

Hogan died following a cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, Florida. Police reported no foul play. As tributes pour in โ€” from fans, wrestlers, and even Donald Trump โ€” one thing is certain: Hulk Hogan wasnโ€™t just a wrestling superstar, he was a pop culture colossus.

His legacy is layered โ€” filled with triumph, setbacks, and unforgettable showmanship. For those who grew up on Hulkamania, the ring will never feel the same again.

Rest in peace, Hulkster. Wrestling may have been scripted, but your impact was real.