10 WWE Backstage Friendships That Paid Off For Huge Career Pushes

3. Daniel Bryan And John Cena

You know your power in the WWE is getting ridiculous when you can actually handpick the guy to replace you as champion - and that's exactly what John Cena did with Daniel Bryan last year. Bryan was on a path towards becoming the biggest star in recent years until that unfortunate injury earlier this year, and he had a massive fan backstage in the shape of Cena. His impact and influence on WWE booking decisions is well noted as we all know, and he was keen for Bryan to be the next big star last year. In fact, Cena was so high on Bryan that he indicated he wanted him to be the man who took over as WWE Champion when he dropped the belt last year. As it transpired Cena did indeed put Bryan over pretty well (which is something he often draws criticism for failing to do), and the angle played out to an extent where Bryan became a mega-star in WWE circles. And of course, the fact they are both in relationships with a Bella twin has no doubt brought them closer together too away from the ring.