John Cena: The man, the myth, the legend

Tyler Job, Staff Writer

Whether WWE fans love him or hate him, John Cena is the greatest wrestler of all-time, and it is not even close.

Some may argue that Ric Flair, Triple H, “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, The Rock, Shawn Michaels, Hulk Hogan, or The Undertaker are greater wrestlers than Cena. There is no question those superstars are among the greatest to have ever lived, but none are greater than Cena.

The accomplishments Cena has are unprecedented. “The Champ” is currently in his record-tying 16th world championship reign, only matching Flair for the most reigns ever. He is also a five-time United States Champion, four-time World Tag Team Champion, two-time Royal Rumble match winner, Money in the Bank winner, and three-time Superstar of the Year Slammy Award winner.

Cena has also headlined WrestleMania five times and over 60 other pay-per-views during his career.

But those accomplishments are just a fraction of Cena’s incredible resume.

Over the years, Cena has gone toe-to-toe with the likes of Triple H, Edge, Shawn Michaels, Randy Orton, CM Punk, Daniel Bryan, and The Rock. Whichever superstar he worked with, he managed to put on eye-raising and awe-inspiring matches every time. More likely than not in those matches, Cena was the one who had his arm raised.

It is fair to say that Cena is not the most athletically gifted superstar, but that does not overshadow his work ethic inside and outside the ring.

Since 2005, Cena has been WWE’s “Face That Runs the Place.” His super hero yet realistic character has inspired millions of fans around the world, including his bestselling t-shirts that say life-defining words such as “Never Give Up” and “Hustle, Loyalty, and Respect.”

Not only does Cena’s character inspire so many inside the ring, but outside it as well. Over the years, Cena has granted over 500 wishes for kids with life-threatening diseases through the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Nobody has ever granted as many wishes as Cena has.

It was also Cena’s generous idea to start WWE’s partnership with Susan G. Komen, a breast cancer organization, back in 2012. WWE has recognized Susan G. Komen during Breast Cancer Awareness Month every year since.

But, with all of the incredible things Cena has done, he is entering the twilight of his career. He is going to be 40 years old in April, his WWE schedule is gradually becoming lighter, and his Hollywood career is becoming more of a focal point.

Cena is set to be a main star along with Leslie Mann and Ike Barinholtz in the upcoming film, “The Pact.” He has also been involved in “Trainwreck” with Amy Schumer and “Sisters” with Tina Fey and Amy Poehler.

Not only is Cena starting to become a box office attraction, he is the host of his own television show “American Grit.” Cena has also hosted the ESPY awards and “Saturday Night Live” in the past year.

Cena has been in WWE for 15 years accomplishing numerous feats. While he is not done in the squared circle yet, it is always unfortunate to see such a great superstar begin to lighten his workload for outside interests.

“The Cenation Leader” still has a lot of gas left in the tank, and it should not be forgotten that Cena has created a legacy for himself and his fans throughout his magnificent career. He has shown day-in and day-out how hard work can take someone to unimaginable heights.

Sometime in the future, unfortunately, Cena is going to retire. It is not known when, but it is imminent. However, if there is one wrestler who deserves the chance to shine outside his own passion more than anyone, his name is John Cena.

And after all is said and done, with what Cena has achieved in his illustrious career, it should not be denied he is the greatest wrestler of all-time.

Sorry Cena haters, but it is the truth.