Celtic Warrior, real name Stephen Farrelly, has long been a cornerstone of WWE’s landscape. After debuting on the main roster in 2009, he instantly made an impact — defeating John Cena to become WWE Champion just months into his run. Since then, he’s amassed a collection of honors: Royal Rumble winner (2012), Money in the Bank winner, multiple World Championships, and Tag Team gold alongside Cesaro as part of The Bar.
0-2Yet after all that, one coveted title remains beyond his grasp: the Intercontinental Championship. It’s the missing puzzle piece preventing him from achieving WWE’s “Ultimate Grand Slam” — a feat that would cement his legacy as one of the true all‑time greats. And, per recent reports, this title pursuit could signal the final chapter of his storied career .
—
The Quest for Grand Slam Immortality
1061-0Sheamus recently told The Daily Mail that he pitched himself to be part of the Intercontinental title picture again, expressing how winning it would be “the Holy Grail.” He emphasized that it’s the only title left before he can truly call himself the first-ever “ultimate Grand Slam Champion” in WWE . Despite WWE’s frequent roster reshuffles and younger talent rising through the ranks, Sheamus remains deeply invested in the chase.
1436-1At 47, he’s no longer a spring chicken in wrestling terms. His body has taken its share of punishment — he took significant time off following a neck injury in 2023 — and WWE’s focus has increasingly shifted toward fresh faces. Even so, reports suggest he remains a fixture on the RAW mid‑upper card and still commands the respect of fans and peers alike .
—
The Timeline: Is Retirement Truly on the Table?
So, when could this dream come to fruition — and could that indeed be the trigger for retirement?
1958-1Dominik Mysterio, the current Intercontinental Champion, has emerged as the leading candidate to face Sheamus next. Their dynamic — with Sheamus as the battle-hardened veteran and Dominik the heelish champion — seems tailor-made for a compelling program. Reports indicate WWE may be setting the stage for their clash at a major upcoming event, possibly Survivor Series or even WrestleMania .
2527-0In that same conversation, Sheamus made it clear: if he finally conquers the IC title, retires on top, and seals his Grand Slam, he could walk away satisfied — with little regret. His phrasing hinted that this year could be the deciding factor .
—
Conflicting Perspectives: Retirement vs. Renewal
2797-0That said, not everyone is buying the retirement narrative — including Sheamus himself, at least until recently. Back in January, he signed a new five‑year WWE deal and spoke about wrestling until “the wheels fall off,” saying he plans to stay active as long as his body holds up . After all, with a long-term contract, a unique YouTube fitness brand under “Celtic Warrior Workouts,” and continued passion for the craft, walking away seems premature.
3175-1What’s more, Sheamus has no desire to leave title shot opportunities on the table. He’s repeatedly emphasized that he doesn’t regret taking time off for health, but said he’d regret retiring while still healthy and passionate .
—
What This Means for WWE Storylines
If WWE fully commits to this angle, we could see one of the most dramatic send-off arcs in recent memory:
1. Build-up – Sheamus chases Dominik Mysterio’s IC title in weekly storylines, cutting passionate promos about legacy and unfinished business.
2. Payoff Match – A high-stakes clash at a marquee event sees Sheamus winning the Intercontinental Championship, completing his Grand Slam.
3. Retirement Angle – Post-victory, WWE orchestrates an emotionally charged farewell: reflecting on his 15+ year career, celebrating achievements, and giving him a proper send-off from the ring.
Such a build would not only satisfy long-term fans but also generate mainstream emotional buzz — rarity in today’s wrestling landscape.
—
The Bottom Line
At this moment, the two competing narratives are:
Yes, Sheamus will retire in 2025, but only after conquering the Intercontinental Championship.
No, he’ll continue wrestling until age or injury dictates otherwise, as per his multi-year WWE contract.
Only WWE’s creative decisions (and Sheamus’s health) will tell. His personal stakes make this angle compelling: dreams of legacy, emotional resonance with fans, and the chance to go out on a high note — all shining lights in his potential final chapter.
3605-9Whether this year is the culminating moment or just another milestone in an extended career remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: Sheamus’s pursuit of the IC title will be meaningful — whether it’s the beginning of the end or just another chapter in his enduring saga .
—
In the world of WWE, nothing stays still for long. But if Sheamus chooses to retire once he finally dons that missing Intercontinental Championship belt, it would be a poetic, career-fulfilling conclusion — and one that would resonate with a generation of wrestling fans.
