The Undertaker Recalls John Cena WWE Debut Conversation In Heartfelt Tribute

In a heartfelt message ahead of his final match, The Undertaker has reflected on he and John Cena’s backstage conversation after the 17-time world champion’s WWE debut in 2002.

After over 23 years as an active superstar in WWE, John Cena will officially hang up his boots tonight after competing in one last match against GUNTHER at Saturday Night’s Main Event in Washington D.C.

As expected, social media has been flooded with tributes to WWE’s “Greatest of All Time” from Cena’s peers, fans and fellow legends in the wrestling business.

WWE Hall of Famer The Undertaker, who had plenty of first hand experience working with Cena throughout the years, was one of the legends to comment on the end of his friend’s in-ring career.

Reflecting on their famous interaction after Cena’s June 2002 WWE in-ring debut against Kurt Angle, Undertaker wrote the following on Twitter:

“Nice job”

Those were the words I said to you 23 years ago when you debuted. Now, on the day of your final match, I say again…nice job.

Hustle, loyalty, and respect is more than just a catch phrase. For 23 years you have lived by those words. Your passion for our business and dedication to our fan base is unmatched.

To have shared the ring with you and have been a part of your journey has been an honor. As your in ring career winds down, be proud of the body of work and the memories you’ve created.

Enjoy the last ride tonight my friend and one final time…nice job.

@JohnCena

Kurt Angle was another one of the legends to pay tribute to Cena ahead of his final match, along with Cena’s long-time rival Adam Copeland (fka Edge).

For the latest news on a change to the card for John Cena’s final WWE match follow this link here.

“Nice job”

Those were the words I said to you 23 years ago when you debuted. Now, on the day of your final match, I say again…nice job.

Hustle, loyalty, and respect is more than just a catch phrase. For 23 years you have lived by those words. Your passion for our business and… pic.twitter.com/WE1SNV9h7W

— Undertaker (@undertaker) December 13, 2025