John Cena, despite stepping away from active wrestling, continues to captivate fans. In a recent appearance on the No Contest Wrestling podcast hosted by O’Shea Jackson Jr. and TJ Jefferson, the 17-time world champion delighted listeners by performing his famous entrance theme, The Time Is Now, live and a cappella. This unexpected moment occurred during their conversation about wrestling and Cena’s iconic music, which sparked nostalgia among fans worldwide.
Origins and Significance of ‘The Time Is Now’
The track The Time Is Now debuted in March 2005 as part of Cena’s album You Can’t See Me. Produced by Jake One, it features both Cena and his cousin Tha Trademarc. Unlike many wrestlers who use pre-produced themes, Cena was deeply involved in creating and performing his own entrance song. Its memorable lyrics and catchy sample quickly made it a fan favorite, imbuing it with a personal connection to Cena’s “Hustle, Loyalty, and Respect” mantra, marking two decades as his defining tune.
Beyond wrestling, the song took on a life of its own through internet culture, becoming a viral sensation as part of the Unexpected John Cena meme, further embedding Cena’s presence in pop culture.
Details of the Podcast Performance
During the podcast episode, which was promoted with a 64-second teaser clip shared by Jackson Jr. on X, Cena performed the first verse of The Time Is Now acapella. Beginning with the line,
“In case you forgot or fell off…”
he rapped up to
“I drop your whole clan, lay your a** down for the three-second tan..”
TJ Jefferson joined in, while O’Shea Jackson Jr. nodded along appreciatively. The sing-along created a lively and heartfelt moment that reminded fans why the song remains one of wrestling’s most iconic anthems.
John Cena’s Ongoing Role After Retirement
Although John Cena concluded his in-ring career following a farewell tour in 2025, his involvement with WWE has not diminished. He continues serving as a WWE Ambassador, mentoring emerging wrestlers and representing the company on global platforms. Simultaneously, Cena is focusing on his acting career, with upcoming projects like Matchbox and Coyote vs. Acme adding to his Hollywood portfolio.
This memorable podcast moment illustrates Cena’s lasting influence both inside and outside the wrestling ring, showcasing his dedication to his craft and fans alike. As Cena moves forward, his energizing presence remains a source of inspiration, promising new ventures and continued support for the wrestling community.
TOMORROW. NO CONTEST WRESTLING. AND @JohnCena @theresnocontest pic.twitter.com/yKoKvqFhim
— O’Shea Jackson Jr (@OsheaJacksonJr) February 18, 2026
