Stephanie McMahon believes John Cena possesses a quality he rarely discusses publicly: a huge heart.
Speaking with WWE ahead of Survivor Series: WarGames, McMahon painted an intimate portrait of the 17-time world champion that goes beyond his in-ring accomplishments.
I don't know that John would agree with me when I say this, but I think John Cena has a huge heart. I think he has a lot of heart, and I think he has a lot of love to give," McMahon shared.
She pointed to Cena's record-breaking Make-A-Wish work as evidence of his character. "He is the number one wish grantor for Make-A-Wish, more wishes than any other superstar, celebrity, musician, entertainer, you name it. And he didn't do that because he was trying to hit a quota. He did that because he cares."
McMahon emphasized that Cena's commitment to meeting children was unwavering.
He would meet with every kid, every day, any day, you know, because that's just who he is as a person.
John Cena's Drive
Beyond his charitable work, McMahon highlighted Cena's extraordinary drive for self-improvement. When WWE offered the opportunity to learn another language, Cena immediately accepted.
John learned, I believe French and Mandarin, which is a very difficult language to learn," McMahon revealed. "John did several, well, he did a big press conference for WWE and he spoke in Mandarin at that conference when we were making our moves in China.
She described Cena's decision to film an entire movie in Mandarin with Jackie Chan as particularly impressive. "To do something like that so far away, so completely removed from the things you're familiar with and the things know, to me, it's just kind of mind blowing."
McMahon summarized what she sees as the authentic John Cena:
His work ethic is real, hustle, loyalty and respect. His mindset for growth, always wanting to be the best version of himself. And I think his heart, which is something he never talks about, but you couldn't do all of the things that he's done without having love in your heart.
