John Cena recently spoke at Fan Expo Boston about his decision not to have children with his wife, Shay Shariatzadeh, citing his demanding work schedule as the primary reason. The WWE legend, known as the Last Real Champion, explained that his busy lifestyle leaves little room for the time and care required to raise a child properly.
John Cena Explains Why He and His Wife Are Choosing a Child-Free Life
John Cena, widely recognized as one of the greatest figures in WWE history, has achieved nearly every milestone possible within the wrestling industry before shifting his focus toward a Hollywood career. Having married Shay Shariatzadeh a few years ago, the couple has made the conscious decision not to expand their family. When asked about this choice at Fan Expo Boston, Cena emphasized the exhausting nature of his professional commitments as a decisive factor in their decision.
He stated that he has been working continuously with no break, making him aware of the responsibilities involved with parenting.
“I have been working straight for 43 days now and I got another 20 to go. If I were to bring a life into this world that needs environmental nurture and unconditional love, I also know that takes time. I’ve been blessed with some great opportunities. Life has awarded me a chance to do some amazing things, and right now I want to seize those opportunities. I don’t want to make an irresponsible choice and bring a life into the world that I will neglect. I don’t think that’s fair,”
Cena said. — John Cena, WWE Star
Criticism Surrounding John Cena’s Recent Wrestlepalooza Match
Despite his celebrated career, John Cena faced harsh criticism for his recent appearance at Wrestlepalooza, where he squared off against Brock Lesnar in a one-sided encounter. Lesnar dominated the bout, defeating Cena with apparent ease, culminating in a quick, decisive finish that left some fans underwhelmed.
Dutch Mantell, a former WWE manager and podcast host, openly expressed his disappointment with the match on his “Story Time with Dutch Mantell” show. Mantell described the encounter as tedious, noting the repetitive nature of Lesnar’s moves.
“I did watch the John Cena and Lesnar match. You talk about boring. I mean, it was a straight up, what’s he call them, F-5s? He gave them four or five of them, and then he laid there, so what’s exciting about that?”
— Dutch Mantell, former WWE manager
Following this bout, Cena is preparing for what is expected to be one of his last matches before retirement, scheduled against AJ Styles at Crown Jewel 2025. This upcoming encounter marks another milestone in Cena’s gradual exit from the wrestling ring, as he continues to balance his in-ring legacy with his Hollywood pursuits.
The Impact of Cena’s Career Choices on His Personal Life and Wrestling Legacy
John Cena’s openness about prioritizing his career over starting a family underscores the intense demands that professional wrestling stars face. His decision not to have children with Shay Shariatzadeh reflects a realistic assessment of his availability and responsibilities. As he nears retirement from active wrestling, Cena has expressed a desire to make meaningful choices that align with his values and workload.
With Cena’s retirement tour underway, culminating in major matches like the one against AJ Styles, his fans and critics alike are watching closely. The way Cena balances his personal commitments alongside his professional goals highlights the challenges that come with sustaining success both inside and outside the wrestling world.
John Cena was asked whether he plans to have kids
“If I were to bring a life into this world that needs unconditional love, I know that takes time… I don’t want to make an irresponsible choice and bring a life into the world that I will neglect.”
— FearBuck (@FearedBuck) September 19, 2025
