John Cena recently opened up in an interview, revealing a different side of himself as he discussed his vulnerabilities and how one decision significantly impacted his life. Known for his career as a formidable professional wrestler, Cena has faced numerous challenges, both within the ring and from his audience.
Cena began his WWE journey in 2002 at the age of 25. With plans to retire this year, he reflects on his career and future. In a conversation with People, the 48-year-old shared insights into his life’s new direction, saying, “Age plays a factor. I’m not as strong or as fast as I used to be.”
He recalled a promise he made to himself early in his career: “I made a promise when I started gaining some notoriety that when I’m a step slower, I will go, because there will be kids just as hungry as I was who have earned a shot to see if they can make it.”
Cena is concluding his wrestling career with a year-long tour, which he describes as a way to provide fans with ‘closure’. He expressed his gratitude towards his supporters: “They’re the reason for my optimism, my perseverance, my passion. They don’t let you get away with phoning it in, because they’ll eat you alive.”
Interestingly, fans have been vocal not just about his wrestling, as Cena recalled seeing signs that read: “The bald John Cena.”
He explained that the fans’ comments on his hair loss made him aware of it, which led him to explore his options, eventually opting for a hair transplant in November 2024.
“I now have a routine: red-light therapy, minoxidil, vitamins, shampoo, conditioner — and I also got a hair transplant last November,” Cena shared. He expressed regret about waiting so long for the procedure, acknowledging that many men face similar issues: “I hate the fact that if there wasn’t so much shame around it, I’d have gotten it done 10 years ago. I thought I was alone, but seven or eight out of 10 [men] suffer from thinning or baldness.”
Cena detailed the transplant process, emphasizing its significance: “It involves moving your hair ‘one by one, from one area to another’.” He is unfazed by potential criticism, stating, “If somebody’s going to sweat me for that, I don’t think there’s any shame in that. It completely changed the course of my life.”
Beyond boosting his confidence, the procedure has expanded his versatility as an actor by allowing him to experiment with different hairstyles.
As he transitions away from WWE, Cena is optimistic about his future, saying, “I hope to remain curious and healthy — and that’s physically, spiritually, mentally. As long as I have love, health, and curiosity for what life has to offer, I think it’ll work out.”