Known as "The Prototype" in the ring and "Peacemaker" on the silver screen, John Cena's larger-than-life presence is often synonymous with strength and humor. Yet, beneath his celebrity persona lies a remarkable story that has etched his name in the annals of the Guinness Book of World Records. Beyond the muscles and charisma, Cena's heart shines as he has fulfilled over 650 children's wishes, a feat that has touched lives and earned him a well-deserved place in the record books.
While fans have witnessed his prowess in the ring and his performances on-screen, this article unveils Cena's lesser-known, profoundly compassionate side. Join us as we delve into the journey that led him to embark on this heartwarming mission, spreading joy and making dreams come true for children across the globe. Prepare to be inspired by the man who proves that true heroes are defined by their actions off-camera as much as their on-screen roles.
#1. John was bullied at school.
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In a small Massachusetts town, John was both born and raised. It's hard to imagine, but Cena experienced bullying as a young boy. “As a young kid — 11, 12 years old — I was heavily picked on and bullied because of choices of dress and music that I listened to. And I was really scrawny like 100 pounds”.
The future WWE superstar started lifting weights around the same time. He gained weight as a result, and by the time he was 17, he was 225 lbs. He was able to play football in college and even rose to the position of team captain thanks to his excellent physical condition and resilient outlook.
#2. He worked as a toilet cleaner.
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John Cena was raised around the world of professional wrestling as his father was a ringside announcer. He left for California with $500 in his pocket after finishing college. Cena had to sleep in his car, clean bathrooms, and drive limousines in order to reach fame and notoriety.
As far as we all know, Cena was successful in joining the core WWE group. He received the public's admiration and recognition after winning 25 championships. He would then move on to Hollywood.
#3. He didn’t want to become an actor.
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Thanks to WWE, Cena's acting career got its start. Although John himself had no aspirations of becoming a movie star, the company saw an opportunity to grow and attract a new clientele. As a result, The Marine and several other action films of a similar nature were released.
Comedy was the genre where Cena found his true success. It turned out that the wrestler was naturally funny, both at himself and at other people. John continued to work in this field after landing a small part in the hit movie Trainwreck with Amy Schumer. Cena received a spin-off series following the release of Suicide Squad 2, in which he played Peacemaker.
#4. He lost a girlfriend because he didn’t want kids.
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John Cena doesn't keep his personal affairs a secret. Shay Shariatzadeh, an engineer and artist, is his wife. Additionally, he previously dated Nikki Bella, a wrestler who was a friend of his. Even though he got down on one knee and gave her a ring, they broke up because he didn't want to start a family.
Cina shared that he had a vasectomy last year. The problem is that he isn't interested in having children. “I think just because you might be good at something, for me, is not a strong enough reason to do that.”
#5. He fulfilled the wishes of hundreds of kids.
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John doesn't dislike children just because Cena doesn't want to have his own children. Actually, the reverse is true. John has worked with the Make-A-Wish organization for 20 years. It's a nonprofit that assists in granting the wishes of young people between the ages of 2 and 18 who are terminally ill.
The three most common wishes made by children are to travel with their families, visit Disneyland, and meet a celebrity. The final wish on this list has been granted by Cena more than 650 times.
#6. He’s in the Guinness Book of World Records.
In fact, Cena broke a significant record and entered the Guinness Book of World Records. No one had ever granted more than 400 wishes during the 42-year history of Make-A-Wish.
And John significantly raised the bar. He has fulfilled more than 650 wishes as of right now. And it appears that he has no intention of stopping.
#7. He became the most requested star of the charity foundation.
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The most well-liked Make-A-Wish celebrity is John Cena. Perhaps the reason the youngsters are reaching out to him is that they perceive him to still possess that inner child, who continues to live and love life and those around him.
Meetings with children always take place in a loving and joyful environment. As is customary, Cena brings one of his championship belts (of which he owns more than 13) for the youngsters to try on. John claims he wants to prove to the world that these kids are the real champions in this situation.
When was the last time you personally experienced a good deed that just happened? What was it, then?