ECW Original Referee John Finegan Announces Retirement After 38 Years

John Finegan, the legendary referee best known for his time as the head official in ECW, is officially hanging up his stripes this spring.

After nearly four decades in the business, Finegan announced on Facebook that he will officiate his final two matches in 2025.

“Well, the time has come. I will be reffing my final two shows ever in 2025. March 22 in Morganville, NJ, at The 2025 Super 8 and May 3 for TWA’s One and Done at the world-famous ECW Arena!” Finegan wrote.

His final match at One and Done will be especially meaningful, as it takes place in the very building where he made his name during the legendary ECW days.

“After 38 years of doing something I dreamed about when I was a little 5-year-old kid watching Saturday morning wrestling with my grandmom, I can’t think of a better way to say goodbye to the business I love!!”

Finegan has been a fixture in pro wrestling, working with ECWA for over 12 years while also being one of the most respected referees in the industry. His retirement marks the end of an era for those who grew up watching ECW and independent wrestling over the past few decades.

What’s your favorite memory of John Finegan’s time in ECW? Share your thoughts in the comments!