John Cena, a pivotal figure in WWE for over twenty years, has officially stated that he will no longer perform the springboard stunner move. Known for his powerful wrestling approach and signature techniques such as the Attitude Adjustment and STF submission hold, Cena revealed this update during FAN EXPO Denver 2025. Despite the springboard stunner’s popularity among fans—especially since he first executed it at WrestleMania 31 against Rusev—Cena emphasized that the move does not fit his style or physical abilities.
Cena’s Preference for Strength Over Aerial Maneuvers
Throughout his career, John Cena has focused on moves that emphasize strength and control rather than high-risk aerial techniques. Speaking candidly at FAN EXPO Denver 2025, Cena explained that he never considered himself a high flyer, and the springboard stunner was a unique occurrence rather than a permanent addition to his repertoire. He shared insights into his relationship with gravity and his decision to avoid moves that challenge his body’s limits.
“So, you know, the answer is no right here… I don’t know. Anything could happen, you know? Yeah, anything could happen. But me and gravity, I realized, are good friends. I thought, man, I’m going to jump off the second rope, fly like an eagle, and I realized that I’m just not good. It was good, though, so you’re the one guy that thinks it was good.” —John Cena
He acknowledged that while the springboard stunner was visually exciting, it was not a sustainable part of his technique due to his wrestling philosophy centered on longevity and safety in the ring.
Recognition of Cody Rhodes’ Mastery of the Move
During the same interview, Cena gave credit to fellow wrestler Cody Rhodes for his exceptional skill with the springboard stunner, admitting that Rhodes has truly mastered the move within the WWE landscape. Cena’s respect for Rhodes highlights his acceptance that some moves are better suited for different wrestlers’ styles.
“I will tell you—and I know I’m promoting my competition here—I think Cody Rhodes has cornered the market on that maneuver.” —John Cena
Priorities Shift Toward Health and Consistency in Retirement Tour
As Cena continues his retirement tour, his primary focus remains on maintaining his health and delivering dependable performances for fans and promotions alike. He stresses that although some moves may excite wrestling audiences, they do not always align with his goal of a safe, sustainable wrestling career. Cena’s choice to ban the springboard stunner reflects a careful consideration of the toll that high-flying moves can take on an aging athlete.
Other Recent Wrestling Headlines
While Cena has decided to close the chapter on the springboard stunner, the WWE and wrestling world continue to experience significant developments. A prominent AEW star recently called Seth Rollins a “freak of nature” and the face of WWE, underlining Rollins’ growing influence.
Meanwhile, speculation circulates around WWE leveraging relationships with major celebrities through figures like The Rock, with a veteran wrestler suggesting this connection aids in securing TV opportunities.
In other news, a 43-year-old former WWE star was recently arrested, though details remain limited. Additionally, Hulk Hogan’s wife, Sky, offered an emotional tribute to the late wrestling legend on SmackDown, honoring his legacy.
Drew McIntyre shared that he nearly missed a crucial WWE World Heavyweight Championship match at WrestleMania XL due to injury concerns, reflecting the physical challenges wrestlers face.
Backstage dynamics have come under scrutiny as rumors of tension between Triple H and The Rock continue to swirl, with insights offered by a WWE Hall of Famer.
On the topic of legacy and mental health awareness, Chris Benoit’s WWE theme is being re-recorded as part of a suicide prevention campaign spearheaded by Raine Maida, the frontman of Our Lady Peace.
Finally, Seth Rollins named a WWE legend he believes could achieve the status of Muhammad Ali within wrestling, signaling continued reverence for the sport’s iconic figures.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is John Cena diagnosed with?
A. Famous wrestler John Cena has been found to have skin cancer. Doctors discovered melanoma on his chest and back about a year apart. Cena explained to USA Today that this diagnosis shifted his perspective on life. He encourages men to pay more attention to taking care of their skin.
Q. What is John Cena’s terminal illness?
A. WWE star John Cena has had skin cancer two times because he didn’t use sunscreen. At 48, he’s promoting a campaign for wearing sunscreen.
Q. Has John Cena ever had surgery?
A. John Cena recently talked about getting a hair transplant to cover his bald spot. During an interview, he criticized wrestling fans for pressuring him to make this choice.
Q. What is John Cena’s biggest fear?
A. 1. John Cena is afraid of heights. He shared in an interview with WWE’s official website that he suffers from acrophobia, which means fear of heights.
