John Cena, a 17-time World Champion in WWE, has taken an uncommon path compared to many other top wrestling stars by actively pursuing secondary titles such as the Intercontinental and United States Championships. While most main event wrestlers tend to remain focused on the highest-tier championships, Cena’s willingness to compete for and value the secondary belts increased their importance among his fans and within WWE storytelling.
During a recent episode of the No-Contest Wrestling Podcast, Cena explained why he placed significant importance on these titles, offering insight into his mindset and approach regardless of his position on the card or the prestige of the championship involved.
Making the Most of Every Chance in WWE
That is what I loved about the meritocracy of the WWE. Good work gets you another chance. Yes, there is only one main event spot on WrestleMania. Now there’s two, but another chance is another chance. Yeah. That’s why I don’t care if I’m first, last, in the middle. In the year of retirement, very few times was I closing the show. I was all over the place. You know what I’m saying? And it doesn’t matter because (it’s) just an opportunity to do good work. If you’re the marquee of a movie and you do good work, it might get you an opportunity to be ninth on the depth chart. But it’s another opportunity to do good work. It’s just a matter of if you’re going to build the obstacles in front of yourself to take it or not.
— John Cena, WWE Superstar
Cena emphasized that WWE operates as a meritocracy where consistent performance opens doors, regardless of one’s ranking on the card. Even as he approached retirement, Cena experienced varying placements on the event lineup, often not closing the show, yet he focused on delivering quality matches whenever he was given the opportunity. He compared WWE to a film production, where even smaller roles allow performers to demonstrate their skills and remain ready for bigger opportunities.
Why Cena Valued Secondary Championships Differently
You know, so many of the wrestling performers, they’ll touch the sun, so to speak. And then when I had the US Open challenge, when I won the Intercontinental title, it’s a joke. And I know these people personally, hopefully they’ll take the joke, I would look and be like,
“Yeah, just like Austin would have done.
Steve Austin has not taken the United States title after he takes the world title because in his personality and what keeps him sharp and driven and motivated is that’s a demotion and I understand that and I respect that. And by the way, one of the greatest to do it, one of the top three. Yeah, I think that DJ (Dwayne The Rock Johnson) would be the same way. I’m not going in this direction. We do this stuff. This is top level stuff and I respect that, too. I don’t have their talent, strengths, and gifts. So, give me anything, right? Give me a paper belt. I’ll try to make it work. You know what I’m saying? So, it’s like, what op what are you chasing?”
— John Cena, WWE Superstar
Cena contrasted his own attitude toward secondary titles with those of legendary wrestlers like Steve Austin and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, who viewed secondary belts as a step down after holding world championships. Cena explained he did not possess the same qualities as those stars and was always willing to embrace any opportunity, even if it meant holding what some regard as less prestigious titles. This determination mirrored his philosophy of making the most out of every role and challenge presented.
The Lasting Impact of Cena’s Championship Mindset
John Cena’s approach challenges common perceptions that only the World Championship carries worth, reminding fans and performers alike that every title within WWE plays a vital role in storytelling and athlete development. His dedication to secondary titles helped sustain their relevance, ensuring these belts remained meaningful parts of WWE programming.
Going forward, Cena’s example could inspire current and future WWE stars to appreciate all championship opportunities, not just those at the top tier, ultimately enriching the wrestling landscape. As the company continues evolving its event formats and talent presentations, valuing every championship can help maintain interest across all levels of competition.
