John Cena has opened up about his feelings regarding Vince McMahon’s departure from WWE and the harsh lessons the former chairman taught him about the wrestling business. Speaking on The Bill Simmons Podcast, Cena reflected on the impermanence of a WWE career, citing Stone Cold Steve Austin’s firing as a prime example.
Cena Never Wanted Vince McMahon To Leave
Despite the controversies surrounding McMahon’s exit, Cena reiterated his personal affection for his former boss. He noted McMahon’s deep love for the industry as a key reason for his sentiment.
“I never wanted Vince (McMahon) to go, because I love him and I know how much he loves the business,” Cena said.
The Lesson: ‘We’re All Gonna Go’
Cena explained that McMahon instilled in him the understanding that every superstar’s time eventually comes to an end. He noted that McMahon taught this not just through words, but through decisive actions involving top talent.
“But he taught me ‘we’re all gonna go, all of us’. He taught me that through not only saying that, but through his actions,” Cena stated.
Witnessing The Firing Of Stone Cold
To illustrate his point, Cena recalled being present when McMahon fired Stone Cold Steve Austin in 2002. Cena described how McMahon used the situation to set a standard for the rest of the locker room, regardless of a talent’s star power.
“I was there the day he fired Stone Cold. Missed a date, gotta go. The biggest attraction. I gotta let people know this isn’t okay,” Cena recalled. “So, things happen. We gotta let people know this isn’t okay. It’s time for you to go. Everybody goes, man.”
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article please credit The Bill Simmons Podcast with a h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription. You can listen to the full interview on The Ringer podcast network.
