REVEALED: How Long John Cena As The Host Of WWE WrestleMania 42 Has Been Planned

John Cena will soon be back on WWE programming as it was announced this week that the 17-time world champion will be the host of WrestleMania 42.

Cena's return to WWE TV may have come about earlier than planned, with WrestleVotes Radio on Fightful Select reporting that Cena serving as the host of WrestleMania 42 was not the plan as of Cena's retirement match in December 2025. Cena learnt about the hosting plans in February and ultimately agreed to be the host of WrestleMania 42.

The reason for WWE deciding to bring back John Cena is ultimately an attempt to increase ticket sales for WrestleMania 42, WrestleVotes Radio noted. Ticket sales for this year's WrestleMania 42 have consistently lagged behind WrestleMania 41, with both shows emanating from Las Vegas' Allegiant Stadium.

John Cena retired from in-ring action at the December 13, 2025 episode of WWE Saturday Night's Main Event with a loss to Gunther where Cena controversially tapped out for the first time in 21 years. Cena signed a new five-year deal with WWE in 2025 to serve as an ambassador, so he will remain connected to the company for the foreseeable future.