John Cena embraced an uncomfortable truth throughout his 23-year WWE career – one that he believes every wrestler needs to accept.
Appearing on The Pat McAfee Show before his final match against Gunther at Saturday Night's Main Event, Cena shared the harsh reality that has shaped his approach to professional wrestling.
I'm here on borrowed time. I got defensively signed in Orange County because of the WCW/WWF wars. I was retained in OVW because I could be an entertaining personality to help the talent more prosperous than me fall down," Cena explained.
"They kept me around in WWE when I made my debut and failed with ruthless aggression. I'm used to or I've known what it's like to walk that razor's edge to face my mortality. And I've also a tried and true lesson that I have learned through this business through mentorship and actual the business unfolding in front of my eyes is everyone is replaceable. Everyone.
That perspective has helped Cena prepare for life after wrestling—and he emphasized that his career doesn't define his entire identity.
When you ask me if I'm set for the next chapter in my life without this thing that's been important to me for 23 years, my answer is yes. Because this is something that I do, but it doesn't define me as a human being.
I am John Cena, WWE superstar, until the bell rings at the end of the match tomorrow night. And then my role changes, but I'm still alive. I can still find curiosity in life. I can still hopefully aspire to do good things and earn a good life and feel fulfilled.
Childlike Curiosity
Rather than dwelling on what he'll lose when his wrestling career ends, Cena is focused on what he'll gain: the freedom to explore new interests without the pressure of his WWE responsibilities.
I just want to always keep a childlike imagination and curiosity. And as long as that happens, I'm square, man. It also doesn't need to be monetized.
Cena faces Gunther, who says Cena is the GOAT of sports entertainment but not wrestling, in his final WWE match on December 13 at Saturday Night's Main Event in Washington, D.C. Cena has confirmed the bout will main event the show.
