John Cena usually stays clear of controversy, so when he does land in one, it tends to capture a lot of attention.
One such uncommon incident for the wrestler-turned-actor involved automobiles.
Cena is known to be an avid car enthusiast, amassing an impressive collection over the years.
As of 2021, Cena was reported to have numerous vehicles in his collection, despite facing issues with Ford in the past.
His car collection is notable, featuring high-end models such as a 2009 Chevy Corvette ZR1, a 1970 Plymouth Road Runner Superbird, and the well-known ‘Corvette InCenaRator’, as reported by GQ.
The car that landed Cena in hot water was the 2017 Ford GT.
The Ricky Stanicky star acquired the vehicle in its release year, with its price reportedly exceeding $450,000 at that time.
Ford limited the production of the GT to a few hundred units annually, requiring owners to adhere to strict guidelines.
Ford GT buyers were supposedly ‘hand-picked customers’ selected through a rigorous application process.
One stipulation for these exclusive buyers was a two-year restriction on reselling the vehicle, but Cena sold his shortly after the purchase.
Apparently, he wasn’t too attached to it.
By selling the car so quickly, Cena breached the sales contract, leading to Ford’s dissatisfaction.
Making matters worse, reports indicate that Cena profited from the sale, resulting in a legal challenge.
According to a 2017 Forbes article, the lawsuit claimed that Cena ‘unfairly made a large profit from the unauthorized resale flip of the vehicle, and Ford has suffered additional damages and losses, including, but not limited to, loss of brand value, ambassador activity and customer goodwill due to the improper sale’.
Ford decided to take legal action against Cena, seeking $500,000.
The following year, Ford and Cena settled the dispute outside of court.
The settlement involved a monetary agreement, though the specific amount was not disclosed, reached outside the formal court proceedings.
Instead of going to Ford, the settlement money was directed towards a ‘worthy charity’.
Cena also issued an apology, stating: “I love the Ford GT and apologise to Ford, and encourage others who own the car to respect the contract.”
“I am pleased we could resolve this matter outside of court, and that a worthy charity will benefit from one of the most iconic cars in the world.”