Joe Rogan Experience #2423 - John Cena

Joe Rogan hosts John Cena and Tony Hinchcliffe, exploring Cena's journey from wrestling to acting, his decade-long effort to learn Mandarin, and a controversial moment involving Taiwan that highlighted the importance of cultural understanding. Cena reflects on his wrestling career, noting the challenges of maintaining success and the evolving nature of WWE. The conversation touches on the intense work ethic required for success, with Cena emphasizing gratitude and learning from failure. They also discuss the rise of content creators like iShowSpeed, illustrating new pathways to fame. Cena's retirement plans and future aspirations in acting are also discussed.

• John Cena discusses his decade-long journey to learn Mandarin, highlighting the challenges and rewards of learning a new language.
• He emphasizes that knowing a language does not equate to understanding a culture.

"Just because you know a language doesn't mean you know the culture."

• Cena reflects on his experience living in China and filming a movie with Jackie Chan, which helped him immerse in the language.

"I lived in China for a little bit. I filmed a movie with Jackie Chan. So I was there for like six or seven months."

• Cena acknowledges the cultural complexities he encountered, particularly around geopolitical issues such as Taiwan.

"I made a pack to myself when I was like, 'Okay, I feel fluent.' We would do these global press tours, and I just happened to be on a global press tour and I'm like, 'You know what? I'm going to do 70% of my media in Mandarin.'"

• He shares a significant learning moment when he mistakenly referred to Taiwan as a country, causing a geopolitical controversy.

"I just said it, left, everybody was cool, I did my thing. Like I read the prompt. It was like a Ron Burgundy moment."

• Cena discusses the fallout from this incident and how it taught him the importance of cultural sensitivity and understanding.

"It was a pretty tense moment for me. Like I had to apologize to China. And in apologizing to China, I pissed off my home country."

• WWE's initiative to offer language programs to its talent is highlighted as a strategic move to expand its global reach, particularly in China.

"The WWE offers and I think they still offer it. They offer a free second language program."

• Cena took the opportunity to learn Mandarin to help WWE break into the Chinese market, which was previously unfamiliar with pro wrestling.

"China was like the one place that didn't understand what we did. So it it's literally like it's a it's a universal language because you can turn it's like UFC like you turn the volume down but you can see like oh this is two guys best guy wins."

• The success of this initiative is noted, with pro wrestling now thriving in China.

"I've read articles that there's promotions over there that are thriving. So like now they get it."

• Cena and Rogan discuss the evolution of pro wrestling from its carnival origins to a global entertainment phenomenon.

"The origins of the business are carnival related. It was like a carnival attraction and then it was like ruthlessly territorial."

• The conversation touches on how WWE has adapted over time to provide more benefits and opportunities for its talent.

"You know the more a sport succeeds the more benefits they offer to their competitors and athletes."

• Cena reflects on taking personal responsibility for the Taiwan incident, emphasizing the importance of accountability.

"I do appreciate you saying like it's not your fault. That's not true. It was my fault."

• He discusses the importance of learning from mistakes and not blaming others for personal errors.

"I [__] up."

• Cena shares his approach to handling the backlash and the lessons he learned about being reactive.

"I should have taken a breath. Again, what did I learn? Don't be reactive."

• Cena and Rogan discuss their personal experiences with pain management, particularly in the context of surgeries and injuries.

"I've had fusion in my neck, right pec completely detached, reattached, both triceps reattached... Never taken one pain pill."

• Cena emphasizes his choice to avoid pain medication and manage pain through other means.

"I know my pain threshold."

• Rogan shares his experiences with pain medication and the decision to avoid it due to the side effects and potential for addiction.

"I took one one day, and I felt so stupid."

• The discussion touches on the variability of pain tolerance among individuals.

"Is pain a personal experience?"

• Tony Hinchcliffe shares his admiration for pro wrestling and his experience being offered a writing job with WWE.

"I have a friend in WWE if you want to have a meeting with them and just talk."

• The conversation explores the impact of key figures in pro wrestling, such as Vince McMahon and Stone Cold Steve Austin.

"Vince McMahon who started this gangster [__] and spread it around."

• Cena and Rogan discuss the potential for future guests on the podcast from the pro wrestling world.

"Steve would be great. I think you would dig Steve."

• The conversation highlights the secretive and surprising nature of pro wrestling events.

"It's fun to be able to surprise a live audience."

• Cadaver tendon graft recovery is significantly faster than patella tendon graft recovery.
• The cadaver tendon is stronger, leading to quicker post-surgery mobility.
• Patella tendon graft involves more invasive procedures and longer recovery time.

"The difference between a patella tendon graft recovery and a cadaver recovery is literally like six months."

• Highlights the significant time difference in recovery between the two methods.

"The cadaver was so much quicker."

• Emphasizes the speed of recovery with a cadaver tendon.

• Cadaver tendons act as scaffolding, eventually replaced by the patient's own cells.
• Feeling better before full recovery can lead to premature resumption of activities, risking re-injury.
• The genetic predisposition to pain and its influence on post-surgery recovery and vulnerability to pain medication.

"You feel better before you are better, unfortunately, because the way the tendon works."

• Warns about the deceptive nature of recovery sensations.

"It's always the concern. It's always in any you feel good and you're like, man, I can do this."

• Discusses the risk of re-injury due to premature activity resumption.

• Pain is subjective and varies among individuals, potentially influencing their coping mechanisms.
• People accustomed to physical sports may have a higher pain threshold.
• Experience of losing fights and dealing with pain can build resilience and understanding of one's limits.

"I think it's a genetic thing. It's just an assumption obviously because I don't feel what other people feel."

• Suggests that pain perception might be genetically influenced.

"There's some value into losing a fight."

• Highlights the learning and resilience gained from experiencing defeat.

• Understanding the consequences of physical altercations and the importance of diplomacy.
• The prevalence of martial arts skills due to the popularity of UFC.
• The risks associated with underestimating opponents in physical confrontations.

"I always try to like lean on diplomacy."

• Advocates for resolving conflicts through non-violent means.

"I assume that a good solid 10% of all men you meet have martial arts skills now."

• Reflects on the increased commonality of martial arts knowledge.

• WWE careers involve calculated risks and collaboration, allowing for longer careers compared to other sports.
• The demanding schedule of WWE performers and its impact on personal life and relationships.
• The importance of calculated risks in maintaining a long-lasting career in wrestling.

"We can make choices on what we do."

• Describes the controlled nature of WWE performances compared to other sports.

"You can choreograph the risk, but you have to do it time and time again."

• Discusses the repetitive nature of wrestling performances and their inherent risks.

• Success in any field requires relentless dedication and sacrifice of personal life.
• Fear of failure can be a significant motivator for high achievers.
• The demanding lifestyle of CEOs and top performers who work tirelessly to maintain their success.

"Saying yes to the thing means no to everything else."

• Emphasizes the sacrifices required for success.

"My motivation is fear of failure."

• Highlights the driving force behind relentless work ethic.

• The wrestling industry values consistent audience engagement over raw talent alone.
• The importance of adapting and evolving one's persona to maintain relevance in wrestling.
• The role of audience feedback in shaping wrestling performances.

"I was just really different."

• Reflects on the need to stand out and adapt in the wrestling industry.

"If the noise is there, even if they [__] hate you, you get another match."

• Discusses the importance of audience reaction in securing opportunities.

• John Cena's accidental discovery of his wrestling persona through freestyle rapping.
• The significance of taking risks and seizing unexpected opportunities.
• The evolution of Cena's character from a hip-hop persona to a more complex wrestling figure.

"Stephanie heard me rap in the back of the bus."

• Describes the serendipitous moment that led to Cena's character development.

"It was literally just a [__] happy accident."

• Acknowledges the role of chance in his career trajectory.

• The impact of a well-executed heel turn on audience perception and engagement.
• The creative process behind crafting a memorable wrestling persona.
• The importance of audience interaction in enhancing the wrestling experience.

"The greatest heel turn in wrestling history when a good good good good crowd-pleasing guy goes bad bad and dark."

• Describes the dramatic effect of a heel turn on audience engagement.

"It's not just me and the other person out there. Like the audience is the act."

• Emphasizes the crucial role of the audience in wrestling performances.

• The importance of collaborating with production teams to enhance wrestling performances.
• The creative process behind crafting a compelling wrestling entrance.
• The balance between personal input and collaborative creativity in wrestling.

"I don't want to tell them what to do because I want to hear their ideas first."

• Highlights the value of collaborative creativity in wrestling.

"What if we just black everything out?"

• Describes the minimalist approach to crafting a memorable entrance.

• The show thrives on its spontaneous moments, similar to pro wrestling, allowing for last-minute changes that keep it fresh and topical.
• This spontaneity allows "Kill Tony" to incorporate current events into its content, making it timely and relevant.

"Up to that day, that moment, like even that thing that we were just telling you about me bringing uh him coming out, that being a reveal, him bringing up Diaz was coordinated literally I think 15 minutes before go time."

• The quote emphasizes the last-minute planning and flexibility that keep the show dynamic and engaging.

• The show incorporates long-term storytelling and unexpected turns, much like professional wrestling.
• The influence of pro wrestling adds layers to the show, making it more than just a traditional stand-up comedy format.

"But it's so funny that that connection with pro wrestling is really why you've made Kill Tony the way it is."

• The quote highlights how the show's format and success are deeply rooted in the creator's love for pro wrestling.

• Many talented individuals face significant obstacles, including self-sabotage and external challenges.
• Success often involves overcoming these hurdles and adapting to new circumstances.

"It's not just the ability to go out and do the task. Well, there's so many variables that will [ __ ] you up."

• This quote underscores the complexity of achieving success and the various factors that can impede progress.

• The path to success in both wrestling and comedy is narrow, with only a few achieving lasting recognition.
• The funnel of talent narrows significantly, with only a small percentage making it to the top.

"Like WWE has like 200 personnel in their NXT development program right now. Maybe 10 will make it. And of those 10, like really honestly, maybe one will make it."

• The quote illustrates the competitive nature of the industry and the slim chances of reaching the pinnacle of success.

• Being open to unexpected opportunities and willing to adapt can lead to success in various fields.
• Embracing change and taking risks are essential for personal and professional growth.

"Life will deal opportunity. It's a matter of understanding that it's happening. You know, don't get in your own way."

• This quote emphasizes the importance of recognizing and seizing opportunities as they arise.

• Personal growth often involves reconciling past relationships and learning from mistakes.
• Professional success requires a willingness to adapt and learn from failures.

"The easy thing to do is to hold a grudge against my dad. What I really wanted to do was tell my dad I love him and sit down with him and be like, 'Yo, let's [ __ ] break bread.'"

• The quote reflects the personal journey of overcoming past grievances to foster healthier relationships.

• The wrestling industry has shifted towards media content, changing how performers learn and grow.
• The focus on televised events limits the opportunities for performers to experiment and fail privately.

"The content that is provided is always available for media or 99% where it used to be the opposite."

• This quote highlights the shift in wrestling from live events to a media-focused model, affecting how talent develops.

• Transitioning from wrestling to acting involves learning new skills and embracing different challenges.
• Success in acting requires the same dedication and adaptability as wrestling.

"I was never there in those movies. I was always back in [ __ ] maybe if I had the feud with this guy or if I could have done this. I was never there, and you could see it in the performance."

• The quote illustrates the challenge of being fully present and invested in a new career path.

• Mentors play a crucial role in personal development, providing guidance and opportunities for growth.
• Seeking out and valuing mentorship can lead to significant personal and professional advancements.

"I always had father figures because I was searching for it and they found me."

• This quote underscores the importance of mentors in shaping one's path and providing invaluable support and guidance.

• Transitioning from WWE to acting involves significant challenges, including balancing relevance in WWE while pursuing film opportunities.
• The decision to leave WWE for acting is complex due to the potential of being forgotten by the audience.
• Timing is crucial for making a successful transition, aligning personal passion with organizational needs.

"WWE is all consuming. And you got to remember like I I was their biggest act. So at 220 shows a year for me to be like, 'Hey, I need six months off to film this action movie.' That really [__] with the bottom line."

• This quote highlights the demanding nature of WWE and the difficulty of taking time off for other pursuits.

"I will be forgotten. That is not a plea of sympathy of like always remember me by the Royal Rumble and the Road Wrestlemania. Nobody gives a [__] because they're focusing on what the show is."

• Emphasizes the fleeting nature of fame in WWE and the risk of being forgotten quickly after retiring.

• The goal is to live a useful life with depth and purpose beyond just career achievements.
• Gratitude plays a central role in appreciating life’s opportunities and challenges.
• Recognizing the role of luck in success and the importance of honoring it by living a fulfilled life.

"The goal is to live useful and not lack like a depth of purpose in my life."

• Indicates the speaker's focus on finding meaning and purpose beyond material success.

"I understand how lucky I am, and I understand I have been awarded more opportunity than one human being should get."

• Acknowledges the role of luck in their success and the responsibility to honor it.

• Exploring interests outside of professional life, such as music, reading, and travel.
• Emphasizing the importance of personal connections and experiences over material achievements.
• The desire to explore the world and enjoy life beyond the confines of a demanding career.

"I love messing around with music. I never read as a kid, so I'm reading more than I ever have. Love cars. Love to I'd love to just drive."

• Highlights the speaker's diverse interests and the pursuit of personal fulfillment.

"I've been around the world like 12 times. I haven't seen [] I've seen the inside of arenas, a hotel bar, and a [] airport."

• Expresses a desire to experience more of the world beyond work-related travel.

• Gratitude is seen as essential despite its overuse in popular culture.
• Emphasizes the importance of being thankful for both positive and challenging experiences.
• Living a good life involves a balance of work, personal fulfillment, and appreciation for opportunities.

"You have to be thankful for the suck, for the pain. You have to be thankful for the lesson, for the journey."

• Stresses the importance of gratitude for all life experiences, not just the positive ones.

"I just want to go in when it's my time, I want to know that I honored the luck I was given by not [__] squandering it."

• Reflects the speaker's commitment to making the most of their opportunities and living a meaningful life.

• Personal stories highlight the value of perseverance and working through difficult circumstances.
• Success is sweeter when achieved through struggle rather than privilege.
• Acknowledges the importance of working hard and earning one's achievements.

"I was sleeping in the parking lot in my 91 Continental and everybody's like, 'Oh man, you were homeless.' I'm like, 'No, no choice. It was my choice.'"

• Illustrates the speaker's willingness to endure hardship in pursuit of their dreams.

"Stay on the bean bag. 24 more hours. Who knows? 24 more hours, something could happen."

• Encourages persistence and patience in the face of adversity.

• Emphasizes the importance of humility and gratitude in maintaining a balanced perspective on success.
• Critiques the mentality of entitlement and the belief that one "deserves" success without earning it.
• Highlights the significance of recognizing and appreciating one's starting point and opportunities.

"When you start getting the deserve mentality of I deserve this. [] it. What the [] do you deserve, man?"

• Criticizes the entitlement mentality and stresses the importance of earning success.

"You can't control where you start, you control where you're going."

• Highlights the importance of focusing on one's actions and responses rather than their initial circumstances.