John Cena defends friendship with Vince McMahon

John Cena has reaffirmed his continued friendship with former WWE Chairman Vince McMahon, stating he feels “no guilt nor shame” regarding their relationship. In a recent interview with The Guardian, Cena addressed the controversy surrounding McMahon, who resigned from WWE and its parent company, TKO Group Holdings, in January 2024 following a lawsuit filed by former employee Janel Grant. The lawsuit included allegations of sexual assault and trafficking, which McMahon has denied.

Cena, who describes McMahon as a mentor and father figure, noted that “it’s OK to love somebody when they’re not perfect.” This marks one of several times Cena has publicly defended his personal bond with McMahon despite the legal allegations.

Additionally, Cena addressed WWE’s international business strategy, specifically regarding events held in Saudi Arabia. While acknowledging the criticism the company faces for these partnerships, Cena expressed belief in wrestling as a “universal language of diplomacy” capable of bridging different cultures and geographies.