#2423 - John Cena
In this episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, WWE star John Cena discusses his path from wrestling to acting, including the challenges he faced in both industries. He shares how his willingness to take risks and adapt—from developing a rap persona in WWE to learning the craft of acting through comedy roles—shaped his career trajectory. The conversation explores how Cena used both private and public failures as opportunities for growth.
Cena and Rogan examine the parallels between professional wrestling and stand-up comedy, noting how both art forms depend on live audience interaction and persona development. The discussion also covers Cena's approach to life and success, his views on making the most of opportunities, and his experiences handling public missteps, including the lessons learned from his "Taiwan incident."
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1-Page Summary
Cena's Unconventional Path to Success in WWE
John Cena's journey to WWE stardom began with unconventional choices that could have derailed his career. Initially struggling to connect with audiences, Cena took a risk by developing a "white rap guy" persona after Stephanie McMahon noticed him rapping on tour buses. Despite being outside his comfort zone, Cena embraced the character, willing to be "a buffoon" for entertainment's sake.
His adaptability and willingness to take risks paid off. Cena created a distinctive black-out entrance that contrasted with other wrestlers' elaborate presentations, and he actively shaped his persona to provoke strong audience reactions, whether positive or negative.
Cena's Transition Into Acting
Cena's move from wrestling to acting presented significant challenges. Initially struggling to be present in his acting roles due to his wrestling commitments, Cena was nearly "run out of the movie business," according to his agent. His primary focus on WWE, performing 220 shows annually, limited his ability to pursue acting opportunities.
The turning point came when Cena began working with comedians like Judd Apatow and Amy Schumer on "Trainwreck." The supportive environment allowed him to experiment without fear of failure, helping him develop confidence and acting skills.
Cena's Life Philosophy
Cena attributes much of his success to "happy accidents" and fortunate circumstances, emphasizing the importance of gratitude and making the most of opportunities. He believes in giving back tenfold for every opportunity received and values growth and learning over material success.
The Value of Failure and Learning From Mistakes
Cena learned valuable lessons through private failures, particularly during non-televised events where he could experiment freely. He discusses learning from public mistakes, such as the "Taiwan incident," where he faced backlash for referring to Taiwan as a country. Rather than deflecting blame, Cena took full responsibility and learned about the importance of cultural understanding.
Parallels Between Wrestling and Stand-Up Comedy
Joe Rogan and Cena discuss the similarities between wrestling and stand-up comedy, noting how both rely heavily on live audience energy and require constant adaptation. Both fields demand performers to develop unique personas, manage hectic travel schedules, and maintain the ability to connect with audiences in different venues. According to Cena, success in both industries depends on meritocracy and audience reception.
1-Page Summary
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- The "white rap guy" persona was a unique character John Cena created to stand out in WWE, where distinct and memorable personas are crucial for success. It combined elements of hip-hop culture with Cena's own style, which was unusual for a white wrestler at the time. This persona helped him connect with younger audiences and differentiate himself from traditional wrestling characters. It demonstrated Cena's willingness to take creative risks to build his brand.
- Stephanie McMahon is a key executive and on-screen personality in WWE. She is the daughter of Vince McMahon, the company's chairman and CEO. Stephanie has held various leadership roles, including Chief Brand Officer, overseeing WWE's global brand and marketing. She also appears in storylines as a wrestler and authority figure.
- A "black-out entrance" in wrestling refers to a dramatic entrance where the arena lights go completely dark before the wrestler appears, creating suspense and focus. This contrasts with typical entrances that use bright lights, pyrotechnics, and music to energize the crowd. Cena's use of a blackout was distinctive because it emphasized his presence through simplicity and surprise rather than spectacle. It helped him stand out by creating a memorable and intense atmosphere.
- Performing 220 wrestling shows annually means John Cena worked nearly every other day, leaving little time for rest or other activities. Each show involves intense physical exertion, travel, and performing live stunts, which can be physically and mentally exhausting. The demanding schedule limits opportunities for other careers, such as acting, due to constant commitments and recovery needs. This workload highlights the high level of dedication and endurance required in professional wrestling.
- "Trainwreck" is a 2015 comedy film directed by Judd Apatow, starring Amy Schumer. It marked one of John Cena's early significant acting roles outside wrestling. Working on this film helped Cena gain confidence and improve his acting skills in a supportive environment. The experience was pivotal in transitioning his career toward acting.
- The "Taiwan incident" refers to a controversy where John Cena called Taiwan a country during a promotional event in China. This statement angered Chinese authorities and fans due to China's claim over Taiwan as a part of its territory. The backlash included calls to boycott Cena and related media in China. Cena later apologized to Chinese audiences to mitigate the fallout.
- Non-televised wrestling events, often called "house shows," are live matches not broadcast on TV. They allow wrestlers to try new moves, personas, and storylines without the pressure of a large audience or media scrutiny. These events help performers refine their skills and gauge crowd reactions in a low-risk environment. Feedback from house shows can influence televised performances and character development.
- Both wrestling and stand-up comedy involve live performances where audience reaction directly influences the show. Performers must read the crowd and adjust their delivery in real-time to maintain engagement. Both require creating a strong, memorable persona that resonates with diverse audiences. The demanding travel and performance schedules also test stamina and adaptability in both fields.
- Meritocracy in wrestling and stand-up comedy means performers succeed based on their talent, effort, and audience response rather than favoritism or connections. Both fields require individuals to prove themselves through consistent performance and crowd engagement. Success depends on earning respect and popularity from fans and peers. This system encourages continuous improvement and adaptation.
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Cena's Unconventional Path to Success in WWE
John Cena reflects on his unique journey to stardom in WWE, acknowledging the untraditional choices and risks that propelled him to top-tier status.
Cena Struggled to Connect With the WWE Audience
Initially in his career, Cena did not abide by the dress code and made disparaging remarks about colleagues—actions that could have been perceived as disrespectful to the business. Despite this, his motivation stemmed from the fear of unemployment and the desire to secure his place in the wrestling world.
Cena's Initial "White Rap Guy" Persona Failed but Later Succeeded By Embracing Risks
Cena embraced a "hip hop head" persona, decking himself out in urban gear, and taking big swings with his character despite the possibility of getting fired. After Cena took to rapping on the bus with fellow wrestlers to pass time, Stephanie McMahon took notice and proposed that he perform on television. Although Joe Rogan notes that rapping was out of Cena's comfort zone, Cena chose to go with it, knowing entertainment is key in wrestling, even claiming, "I'll be a buffoon" if it helps.
Cena's Perseverance and Experimentation Led To WWE Success
Cena Took Risks Embracing New Opportunities, Like Rapping On TV
Cena’s willingness to take risks is evident through his decision to rap on TV. He describes his career as a marathon of single matches over 23 years, signifying a long-term commitment to his work and steady progress in the industry.
Cena's Adaptability to Audience Reactions Made Him a Top Star
Cena gives credit to the production team for his memorable, "basic" blacked-out entrance, which was designed to contrast with his opponents' more ...
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Cena's Unconventional Path to Success in WWE
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) is a global sports entertainment company known for scripted wrestling matches and dramatic storylines. Being a "top-tier" wrestler means achieving high popularity, main event status, and significant influence within WWE. WWE culture values charisma, audience connection, and adaptability as much as wrestling skill. Success often requires performers to develop unique personas that engage fans emotionally.
- In WWE, the dress code reflects professionalism and respect for the company’s image. Wrestlers are expected to present themselves in a way that aligns with their character and the brand’s standards. Not following the dress code can signal disrespect or unprofessionalism, potentially harming a wrestler’s reputation and career. It also affects how fans and colleagues perceive the wrestler within the industry.
- John Cena's "hip hop head" persona was unconventional because it contrasted sharply with typical wrestling characters, which often emphasized toughness or traditional masculinity. At the time, WWE audiences and management were skeptical of a white wrestler adopting a rap-based character, fearing it might not be accepted or could be seen as inauthentic. This persona was risky because it challenged norms and could have alienated fans or led to Cena being dismissed. Cena's choice to embrace this style showed his willingness to break molds and stand out in a crowded entertainment field.
- Stephanie McMahon is a key executive and on-screen personality in WWE, part of the McMahon family that founded the company. She has held roles such as Chief Brand Officer, overseeing WWE's marketing and creative direction. Stephanie also appears as a wrestler and authority figure in WWE storylines. Her influence helps shape talent development and company strategy.
- John Cena was primarily a wrestler, not a rapper, so performing rap was unfamiliar and challenging for him. Wrestling entertainment requires performers to engage audiences beyond physical matches, often through character work and promos. Rapping on TV showcased Cena’s willingness to embrace entertainment aspects, broadening his appeal. This risk helped him stand out and gain opportunities in WWE.
- In WWE, wrestlers' entrances are theatrical performances designed to showcase their character and excite the audience. Most wrestlers use elaborate lighting, music, and costumes to create a flashy, memorable entrance. Cena’s "blacked-out entrance" was minimalist, using simple lighting and attire to stand out by contrast. This understated approach highlighted Cena’s persona and made his presence feel more intense and focused.
- Wrestling personas are exaggerated characters wrestlers portray to entertain and engage the audience. These characters often have distinct traits, styles, and storylines that create emotional connections with fans. Audience reactions, such as cheers or boos, guide wrestlers and promoters in adjusting these personas to maximize entertainment value. This dynamic feedback helps evolve characters to maintain interest and relevance over time.
- "Mr. Saturday Night" ...
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Cena's Transition Into Acting and the Lessons Learned
John Cena's journey from the wrestling ring to the silver screen has been met with both personal and industry challenges. This transition led him to new insights and a fresh approach to his career.
Cena's Transition From Wrestling To Filmmaking Was Challenging
Initially, Cena found it challenging to be present in acting roles, often feeling disconnected. His mind was preoccupied with wrestling, detracting from his ability to engage fully with his characters. He recalls being cautioned by his agent that he had almost been "run out of the movie business" and that he would need to chart a new course within the entertainment sector.
Cena Prioritized Wrestling Over Acting
Cena's movie career began at the behest of Vince McMahon, who established WWE Studios to transform wrestlers into movie stars. McMahon's goal was to expand their fan base through films like "The Marine," which Cena starred in. However, wrestling was Cena's primary focus, which meant he couldn't give his all to acting. Performing in 220 WWE shows a year, Cena was a pivotal figure, and any time taken off for filming affected the company’s profits. This meant that, in his earlier career, Cena often had to choose WWE obligations over potential acting opportunities.
Cena Became More Open-Minded and Coachable In Acting
Through his experiences, Cena learned to embrace the acting process with the same level of commitment as he had toward wrestling. He leaned into the new field, acknowledging the need to adapt and evolve beyond his established persona in the wrestling world.
Cena Credits Working With Comedians Like Judd Apatow and Amy Schumer For Helping Him Grow As an Actor
Cena's growth was significantly propelled by working with comedians and filmmakers who created a supportive environment. ...
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Cena's Transition Into Acting and the Lessons Learned
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Clarifications
- John Cena is a professional wrestler who became one of the most popular and successful figures in WWE history. He is known for his charismatic persona, catchphrases, and multiple championship wins. Beyond wrestling, Cena has expanded into acting, hosting, and philanthropy, making him a well-known entertainment personality. His crossover appeal has helped bridge the worlds of sports entertainment and mainstream media.
- WWE Studios is the film production division of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). It creates movies featuring WWE wrestlers to expand their brand beyond wrestling. The studio aims to attract both wrestling fans and general audiences through action and comedy films. WWE Studios helps wrestlers transition into acting careers by providing them film roles.
- Vince McMahon is the chairman and CEO of WWE, the wrestling company where John Cena became a star. McMahon played a key role in Cena's career by promoting him as a top wrestler and encouraging his move into acting. He founded WWE Studios to create film opportunities for wrestlers like Cena. Their relationship is both professional and influential in shaping Cena's entertainment career.
- Performing in 220 WWE shows annually means Cena had a very demanding and tightly packed schedule. This left him little time for other activities, such as acting projects that require extended filming periods. Frequent travel and physical exertion from wrestling also limited his availability and energy for acting. Consequently, balancing both careers was challenging and often forced him to prioritize wrestling commitments.
- Being "run out of the movie business" means being forced to leave or being rejected by the film industry. It often happens when someone is seen as unprofessional, difficult, or unsuccessful. This phrase implies a serious threat to one's career in movies. It suggests that continuing without change could end their opportunities in acting.
- Judd Apatow is a well-known filmmaker and producer famous for creating successful comedy films and TV shows. Amy Schumer is a comedian and actress recognized for her sharp humor and work in stand-up and film. Both are influential in comedy, making them valuable mentors for actors learning comedic timing and improvisation. Their involvement in "Trainwreck" provided John Cena a supportive environment to develop his acting skills.
- A "supportive and low-pressure environment" on a film set means actors feel safe to try different performances without fear of harsh judgment. Directors and crew encourage experimentation, allowing mistakes to be part of the creative process. This atmosphere helps actors build confidence and improve their skills gradually. It contrasts with high-pressure sets where actors must deliver perfect takes immediately.
- Wrestlers often struggle with acting because wrestling emphasizes physical ...
Counterarguments
- Cena's wrestling background may have actually provided him with unique skills and a strong work ethic that could be advantageous in his acting career.
- The narrative that Cena had to choose between wrestling and acting might overlook the possibility that his wrestling fame provided a platform that helped launch his acting career.
- The idea that Cena was almost "run out of the movie business" could be exaggerated, as it's not uncommon for actors to face rejection and setbacks before finding success.
- While Cena credits working with comedians for his growth, it could be argued that his own dedication and willingness to learn were equally, if not more, important factors in his development as an actor.
- The suggestion that Cena needed to evolve beyond his wrestling persona might imply that his wrestling character was a limitation, whereas it could be viewed as a strength that he could draw upon in certain acting roles.
- The emphasis on learning from others might understate Cena's own contrib ...
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Cena's Life Philosophy: Gratitude and Embracing Opportunities
John Cena, known for his illustrious career in wrestling and his ventures into acting, shares his approach to life revolving around gratitude for opportunities and the pursuit of experiences over material wealth.
Cena Stays Grateful for Opportunities Despite Success
John Cena continually emphasizes the importance of gratitude for every opportunity, even those that demand hard work and come with challenges such as long hours or exhaustive promotional tours.
Cena Credits His Success to Fortunate Circumstances and "Happy Accidents"
Cena describes his career trajectory as a series of fortunate circumstances and "happy accidents." He attributes much of his success to these events, from a sibling's dare that led to his signature wrestling move to unexpected opportunities in wrestling and acting. He acknowledges his "optimism bias" and his belief in seizing life's opportunities. Cena states that he was born to honor the luck he's been given, implying that achieving success involves not just entitlement but the result of effort in conjunction with opportunities.
Cena Honors His Luck and Opportunities By Giving Full Effort
Cena believes in giving back significantly more than what is invested in him, aiming to return tenfold in value for every opportunity. He expresses his commitment to the opportunities presented to him by being fully committed and adaptable, sharing that he wouldn't have learned as much if he had remained in his small hometown. Moreover, he insists on giving his all, whether in wrestling, acting, or any new venture he tackles.
Cena Embraces Openness To New Experiences and Calculated Risks
Cena values growth, learning, and living a life driven by curiosity and a purpose that goes beyond material successes.
Cena Embraces New Experiences For Growth and Learning
Cena discusses his willingness to take on different roles, learn new skills, and face uncertainties. While in pursuit of growth, he's open to engagin ...
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Cena's Life Philosophy: Gratitude and Embracing Opportunities
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Counterarguments
- While gratitude is important, it's also necessary to recognize personal effort and talent in achieving success; attributing everything to luck or happy accidents might undermine the hard work and dedication required.
- The idea of returning tenfold for every opportunity can be unrealistic and may lead to burnout or an unsustainable work ethic.
- Embracing every new experience and calculated risk can sometimes lead to a lack of focus or spreading oneself too thin, which might hinder deep expertise in any one area.
- Staying in challenging situations longer in hopes of unexpected opportunities could sometimes result in missed opportunities elsewhere or staying in a detrimental position for too long.
- Prioritizing curiosity and purpose over material success is a noble idea, but material success can also provide the means and stability to pursue one's purpose and curiosity more freely.
- The concept of "living usefully" is subjective and can vary greatly from person to person; what Cena finds purposeful mig ...
Actionables
- You can start a gratitude journal where you write down challenges you faced and what you learned from them each day. This practice helps you recognize the value in difficult situations and reinforces a mindset of gratitude and growth. For example, if you had a tough day at work, instead of focusing on the stress, you could write about how it taught you to manage your time better or communicate more effectively with colleagues.
- Volunteer to mentor someone in an area you're knowledgeable about, aiming to provide them with more value than you get in return. By doing this, you not only give back to your community but also reinforce your own knowledge and skills. For instance, if you're good at public speaking, offer to coach a local student group, which can help you refine your own abilities while significantly aiding others.
- Create a "risk diary" where you log one ...
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The Value of Failure and Learning From Mistakes
John Cena discusses the significant role that failure and mistakes have played in both his personal growth and professional career.
Cena: Failure and Mistakes Essential for Growth
John Cena implicitly discusses the concept of learning from failures through his willingness to take on challenges like rapping, viewing such ventures as experimental stepping stones in his career.
Private Failures Valued by Cena For Non-televised Experimentation
Cena learned the value of failing in private during non-televised events, where he could take big risks and experiment. Cena mentions specifically starting to use his "invisible" trick at these smaller live shows, appreciating the freedom to fail without significant consequences. These moments of playful experimentation, such as the development of his "You can't see me" gesture, often emerged from dares with his brother and proved invaluable for learning and adaptation before performing for larger audiences.
Cena Uses Mistakes For Growth and Course Correction
Cena's Reflection on "Taiwan Incident" to Prevent Repeated Errors
Cena learned from an incident where his attempt to use his newly learned Mandarin led to a geopolitical controversy by referring to Taiwan as a country in a promotional video. He notes that knowing a language does not imply understanding the associated culture, and this event highlighted the importance of cultural fluency. He faced intense backlash from both China and the United States and realized his misstep despite his intentions. The experience taught Cena about the significant implications of l ...
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The Value of Failure and Learning From Mistakes
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Actionables
- You can embrace failure as a learning tool by keeping a "failure journal" where you document your daily setbacks and the lessons learned from each. This practice encourages reflection on failures as growth opportunities, much like reviewing game tapes in sports to improve performance. For example, if you tried a new recipe and it didn't turn out well, write down what went wrong and what you could do differently next time, turning the experience into a constructive lesson.
- Develop cultural fluency by engaging with international pen pals or language exchange partners to discuss cultural norms and current events. This interaction can provide insights into the nuances of different cultures beyond language proficiency. For instance, if you're learning Spanish, find a pen pal from Spain to discuss the cultural significance of local festivals or historical events, which can help you understand the context in which the language is used.
- Practice taking responsibility for errors by setting up a personal "apology protocol" for w ...
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Parallels Between Wrestling and Stand-Up Comedy
John Cena and Joe Rogan discuss the many commonalities between professional wrestling and stand-up comedy, from live performance aspects to the grind behind successful careers.
Wrestling and Stand-Up Comedy Involve Live Performance and Adapting To Audiences
Cena acknowledges that wrestling is akin to a live comedy show, relying heavily on the audience’s energy. He compares his wrestling entrance and performance to a stand-up comedy routine, requiring close coordination with others, including production and lighting teams.
Joe Rogan equates the surprise elements in a "Kill Tony" comedy event to those in WWE, underscoring the importance of audience engagement common to both disciplines. Cena also discusses the joy of surprising a live audience, emphasizing that like comedians, wrestlers must be responsive to the crowd to create a memorable experience.
The Importance Of Developing a Unique Persona and Brand in Industries
Cena talks about the necessary progression of a wrestler's career, likening it to a stand-up comedian's rise to stadium tours, as performers in both industries must adapt performances to different venues and audiences. He also reflects on the development of his "white rap guy" persona, which allowed him to stand out and connect with the audience more effectively, highlighting how crucial a unique persona is for success.
Success in Both Industries Requires Similar Grind and Hustle
Cena outlines the meritocracy in WWE, where continued opportunities are contingent on audience reception, much like the world of comedy. He describes the excitement from the crowd as the magic that makes live events wonderfully unforgettable.
Cena also touches on the challenges shared by both wrestlers and comedians, like constant travel, managing hectic schedules, and the necessity of content creation. Both careers require an intense grind, as performers travel from ...
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Parallels Between Wrestling and Stand-Up Comedy
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Clarifications
- "Kill Tony" is a live comedy show and podcast where aspiring comedians perform one-minute sets. The show features a panel of professional comedians who provide immediate feedback and interact with the performers. It is known for its spontaneous and unpredictable nature, creating a dynamic experience for both the audience and participants. This format emphasizes quick wit and audience engagement, similar to elements in wrestling performances.
- A wrestler's "entrance" is the moment they enter the arena before a match, often accompanied by music, lighting, and choreography. It sets the tone for their character and builds excitement among the audience. Entrances help establish a wrestler's persona and can influence crowd reactions. This theatrical introduction is a key part of the live performance experience in wrestling.
- A "persona" is a crafted character or identity that performers adopt to connect with their audience. In wrestling, it shapes how a wrestler is perceived, influencing storylines and fan reactions. In comedy, a persona helps comedians express unique viewpoints and style, making their act memorable. Developing a strong persona is crucial for standing out and building a loyal following.
- The "white rap guy" persona refers to John Cena's early wrestling character, where he performed rap battles and used hip-hop culture elements. This persona helped him stand out in WWE by blending humor, music, and athleticism. It was inspired by the popularity of rap and hip-hop in the early 2000s and showcased Cena's charisma and creativity. The character was key to building his unique brand and connecting with diverse audiences.
- A "meritocracy" in WWE means wrestlers earn success based on their talent, effort, and how well they connect with fans. Audience reaction, like cheers or boos, signals who is popular or engaging, influencing booking decisions. Promoters use this feedback to decide who gets more screen time, storylines, and title opportunities. This system rewards performers who consistently entertain and draw crowd interest.
- Wrestling careers often start in smaller regional promotions before moving to major organizations like WWE, with increasing exposure and larger venues. Similarly, stand-up comedians typically begin performing in local clubs, then progress to bigger comedy festivals and eventually large theaters or stadiums. Both paths require building a fan base, refining skills, and adapting performances to larger, more diverse audiences. Success at each stage opens opportunities for higher-profile gigs and broader recognition.
- Production and lighting teams design the visual and auditory environment to enhance the mood and focus audience attention. In wrestling, lighting highlights entrances and key moments, creating dramatic effects that amplify storytelling. In comedy, lighting ensures the performer is clearly visible and sets an intimate or energetic atmosphere. Both teams coordinate cues with performers to synchronize effects with live a ...
Counterarguments
- While both wrestling and stand-up comedy involve live performances, the nature of the performance is different; wrestling is a scripted physical performance, whereas stand-up comedy is often a solo act focused on delivering jokes and stories.
- The comparison of audience adaptation might be oversimplified, as the type of feedback and interaction a comedian receives can be more direct and verbal, while wrestlers interpret crowd reactions to a choreographed performance.
- The coordination with production teams is a shared aspect, but the skills and timing required for a successful wrestling entrance can be quite different from those needed for a stand-up routine, which may rely more on the comedian's timing and less on production cues.
- The development of a unique persona in wrestling often involves physicality and character storylines, which is distinct from the personal and observational nature of many stand-up comedy personas.
- The meritocratic nature of success in both industries can be debated, as factors such as industry connections, marketability, and external circumstances can also play significant roles in a performer's opportunities and success.
- The challenges of constant travel and hectic schedules are not unique to wrestling and stand-up comedy and are common in many performance-based careers, including musicians, actors, and dancers.
- The idea that both industries rely on an irreplaceable live audience energy could be contested by pointing out the increasing role of digital plat ...
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