25 Things You Didn't Know About John Cena

22. “I Started Reading At 40”

Some people love burying their nose in a good book. Even then, there are differences in approach - some want a physical book in their hands, whilst others never hit the road without their Kindle. Then, there's John Cena. He didn't actually start reading properly until he turned 40. Books were always just something he had zero time for during his early years and into adulthood.

Being fair, he was kinda busy doing other things.

He's 48 at time of writing, but told the Wall Street Journal in 2024 that he didn’t actually start picking up books or reading until he hit the big 4-0. During the interview, Cena also joked that his eyesight is getting worse, so he maybe picked the wrong time to get a new hobby. Now, he’s an avid reader who always finds time to chill out with a book. 

Picture the scene: John has just won the WWE Title from Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 41. It's likely to be his last stint with that belt, so it's special. To celebrate, he shakes some hands backstage, maybe attends the post-show party (if those are still a thing) for a while before retreating to his hotel suite. That's when the new champ exhales, grabs his book/Kindle and starts reading.

Meanwhile, millions of wrestling fans around the globe are frantically punching words on phones and laptops about his title win. Some are happy, some are sad. All tucked up in bed, a smug Cena is far too busy losing himself in the drama of Mick Foley's autobiography.

OK, maybe he wouldn't be reading that. Who knows?