The Genesis Of John Cena

Before he became the face of pro wrestling, John Cena was just another guy trying to make it in Hollywood.

He was born in Northern Massachusetts in 1977. By the time he was 12, he was already a dedicated weightlifter. In college, he was a division 3 All American in football as an offensive lineman and briefly considered pursing the sport professionally before deciding he was too short.

Cena then decided to move to LA with $500 with the hope of becoming a professional body builder. Success in the city was fleeting for him, until a friend suggested that he try pro wrestling. He started matches in 1999 and slowly rose through the ranks before making his WWE debut in 2002. He has since racked up 25 championships, including 16 reigns as world champion.

Outside the ring, he’s established a successful second career on the big screen. Having a penchant for funny roles, he’s given scene-stealing performances in movies like “Trainwreck,” “Sisters,” and he latest movie “Blockers.” He’s also a relentless philanthropist and has granted more wishes to sick kids than any other celebrity in the history of the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Whether it’s in the ring or on the screen, John Cena seems to leave his mark on everything he touches.