John Cena is one of the most recognisable names in the world, whether it be for his wrestling or acting.
A WWE icon, Cena is set to retire from the sports entertainment business at the end of 2025, more than 23 years on from making his Smackdown debut. The American has had 17 separate WWE championship reigns, more than any other wrestler in the history of the business.
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John Cena’s WWE accomplishments |
|
|---|---|
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WWE Champion |
14 |
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WWE World Heavyweight Champion |
3 |
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WWE United States Championship |
5 |
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WWE Tag Team Championship |
4 |
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Money in the Bank winner |
2012 |
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Royal Rumble winner |
2008, 2013 |
Due to his status, he has regularly been at the centre of numerous interviews away from the ring throughout his career, being asked questions not focused on wrestling.
Previously, when speaking to the BBC, Cena was quizzed on all things football, from his favourite player and Premier League team, to what role he would like if he was involved in the sport.
When asked who his favourite player was, Cena chose Cristiano Ronaldo over Lionel Messi. The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star is still going strong in Saudi Arabia with Al-Nassr and is showing no signs of slowing up in front of goal.
“If I had to name some famous footballers, I would start and end with Cristiano Ronaldo. That’s it.”
Ronaldo, who was won five Ballon d’Or awards, holds the record for the most international appearances and international goals with Portugal.
John Cena names favourite Premier League team
When asked who his preferred team is in England, Cena name-checked Tottenham Hotspur, citing a time when he visited White Hart Lane back in 2008 during a tour of the UK with the WWE.
“Tottenham were playing the same night I had a WWE event in London. But I was able to go and see the stadium and I was lucky enough to actually walk on the pitch.
“I really loved it because it was right in the heart of the city – it reminded me of an old baseball stadium with its nostalgia and tradition.
“I got to hear about the Spurs being the working man’s team, I got to meet the coach and it was beautiful to see the bright green pitch amidst all the city concrete. “So I was taken aback by the passion of the sport – although I never got to see them play.”
With Spurs seemingly Cena’s favourite team and Ronaldo his best-ever player, Cena was then asked where he would play if he was a footballer. Instead of giving a position, the wrestling star fancied himself on the sidelines.
“If I were to play myself, I would be on the bench because I have watched a few games, and it is a lot of running – I don’t run very well, or very far. I could maybe go in goal but there is a lot of pressure on the goalie, because the net is so big and the goalies are so small, so it is tough to block the shots. So, I think being an inspirational coach might be my best role.”
