Ric Flair recently shared a vivid memory involving John Cena during a WWE European tour, explaining that WWE management had to step in to curb their excessive partying. This revelation sheds light on what became known behind the scenes as the John Cena WWE party intervention.
On the Glory Days podcast with Johnny Manziel, Flair recounted how their nights overseas were filled with relentless drinking and high spending, which quickly drew the attention of WWE’s higher-ups. Flair’s wild nightlife was legendary, and Cena, then rising in the company, got caught up in the pace.
Management’s Decision to Control Cena’s Tour Behavior
Flair described spending thousands of dollars on alcohol over just 12 days alongside Cena, illustrating the level of their indulgence. The partying soon became a concern for WWE Chairman Vince McMahon, who had clear plans to position Cena as the company’s main figurehead.
“We went on a tour in Europe and he spent 10 grand, and I had to spend equal amount on a 12-day tour… just drinking.”
—Ric Flair
Because Cena was being groomed for stardom, Vince called him in for a serious conversation about his behavior and the influence Flair had on him. Management was clear that Cena needed to distance himself from the wild lifestyle Flair led if he was to represent the WWE brand.
“So Vince called him in and said, ‘Look, I know Flair’s fun to be with, but we gotta cut this off. If you’re going to be the flagship of our company, you can’t hang around Flair.’”
—Ric Flair
Flair’s Lasting Impact and WWE’s Approach to Cena’s Future
Flair expressed no resentment toward the intervention, acknowledging that he was used to WWE’s concerns over his party reputation. From missing expensive watches to exorbitant bar tabs, Flair’s stories of nightlife mischief are well-known in wrestling circles. This incident illustrates the company’s efforts to ensure Cena’s professional image remained intact while still respecting Flair’s larger-than-life persona.
The WWE’s decision to manage Cena’s environment during the tour remains a defining example of how the company balances personal behavior with professional expectations, especially for its rising stars.
