Early Life and Education of John Cena: A Complete Timeline

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John Cena

Discover the defining moments in the early life of John Cena. From birth to education, explore key events.

John Cena is an American actor and professional wrestler renowned for his career in WWE, where he holds a record 17 world championship reigns, solidifying his status as one of wrestling's all-time greats. Beyond wrestling, Cena has transitioned into acting, starring in films like "The Marine" and "Bumblebee," and leading the TV series "Peacemaker." His success spans both the sports entertainment and acting industries.

April 23, 1977: John Cena's Birth

On April 23, 1977, John Felix Anthony Cena was born. He would later become a professional wrestler and actor.

Others born on this day/year

1999: Graduation from Springfield College

In 1999, John Cena graduated from Springfield College with a degree in exercise physiology and kinesiology.

2002: First Make-A-Wish

In 2002, John Cena granted his first wish for a child with a life-threatening illness through the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

2003: Origin of "You Can't See Me" catchphrase

In 2003, John Cena created his catchphrase "You Can't See Me" during the production of his new theme song after being dared by his little brother to do the yayo dance on TV. He modified the dance by waving his hand in front of his face.

July 11, 2009: Marriage to Elizabeth Huberdeau

On July 11, 2009, John Cena married Elizabeth Huberdeau.

May 1, 2012: Filing for divorce from Elizabeth Huberdeau

On May 1, 2012, John Cena filed for divorce from Elizabeth Huberdeau.

April 2016: ESPN reporter comments on Cena's recovery abilities

In April 2016, ESPN reporter David Shoemaker commented on John Cena's remarkable recuperative abilities, comparing his recovery scale to "German platelet-rich plasma therapy and Deadpool".

2016: Learning the piano

In 2016, John Cena began to learn the piano.

2016: Learning Mandarin Chinese

In 2016, John Cena started learning Mandarin Chinese to help the WWE expand its reach and spoke in Mandarin at a press conference in China.

April 2, 2017: Engagement to Nikki Bella

On April 2, 2017, John Cena became engaged to Nikki Bella at WrestleMania 33, where he proposed to her.

April 2018: End of Relationship with Nikki Bella

In April 2018, John Cena ended his relationship with Nikki Bella.

2019: Beginning Relationship with Shay Shariatzadeh

In early 2019, John Cena began dating Shay Shariatzadeh, whom he met during the production of his film Playing with Fire.

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June 2020: $1 Million Donation to Black Lives Matter

In June 2020, John Cena donated $1 million to Black Lives Matter as part of the #MatchAMillion initiative popularized by the K-pop band BTS.

October 12, 2020: Marriage to Shay Shariatzadeh

On October 12, 2020, John Cena married Shay Shariatzadeh in a private ceremony in Tampa, Florida.

July 6, 2024: Money in the Bank Appearance and Retirement Announcement

On July 6, 2024, John Cena made a surprise appearance at Money in the Bank to announce his retirement from in-ring action at the end of 2025.

March 31, 2025: Revelation of skin cancer diagnosis

On March 31, 2025, John Cena revealed that he had previously had skin cancer.