Target Sells Out of Signed John Cena Action Figures

These signed figures dropped right in the middle of the perfect storm for John Cena collectibles. The 16-time world champion (now 17 after winning the Intercontinental title in November) spent all of 2025 on his retirement tour, which culminated in his final match against Gunther just three days ago in Washington D.C. The entire wrestling world watched Cena tap out in his last-ever match after a 23-year career, making anything with his signature instantly more valuable.

Target nailed the timing by releasing these during peak Cena nostalgia. The retro LJN design (8 inches tall, rubbery feel, classic ’80s style) already appeals to collectors, but add an authentic signature and you’ve got something that combines childhood nostalgia with a genuine piece of wrestling history. The fact that Cena literally just retired makes these feel like commemoration pieces rather than random signed merch.

Here’s where smart resellers actually made money. Target Circle members got access to a $25 off coupon when purchasing two figures, which brought the $120 total down to $95. That’s $47.50 per signed figure for anyone who stacked the deal. With current market prices hovering around $150 per figure, you’re looking at roughly $102.50 profit per unit after eBay’s 13% fee ($19.50) and shipping costs (let’s call it $8).

Buy two at $95 total, flip both at $150 each ($300), minus $39 in fees and $16 in shipping leaves you with $245. Subtract your $95 cost and you’re at $150 profit on a two-figure flip, or $75 per figure. Not bad for a retail play that required zero hunting or backdoor connections.

Most resellers are sitting tight right now because these figures don’t ship until February. eBay’s policies allow presales and early listings, but explicitly require sellers to ship orders within 40 days of sale. These figures won’t be available until February 23 which is currently 69 days away, so waiting to list is the smart move.

A few early listings have popped up around the $150 mark, but the real test comes when hundreds of units hit the market simultaneously next month. Demand should stay strong given Cena’s recent retirement, but there’s always risk that the market floods when everyone’s orders arrive at once.

If you copped these with the Circle discount, you’re sitting on solid profit once they ship. The $47.50 cost basis gives you plenty of cushion even if secondary market prices drop from $150 to $120 by February. For anyone who paid full $60 retail, you’re still looking at decent margins but with less room for error if the market softens.

The real question is whether resellers hold for potential appreciation or flip immediately when they arrive. Cena just retired three days ago, so sentiment is at its peak. Historical wrestling collectible trends suggest selling fast rather than banking on long-term appreciation, especially for mass-produced retail items. These aren’t limited to 100 units, Target sold thousands. Strike while the iron’s hot.