Even in retirement, John Cena knows how to be the center of attraction. The 17-time world champion recently made his fans’ day by rapping his iconic entrance theme song, “The Time Is Now.”
“The Time Is Now” was released in March 2005 as part of Cena’s album “You Can’t See Me.” The track was produced by Jake One and performed by Cena and his cousin Tha Trademarc.
Unlike most wrestlers, the Hollywood star actually helped create and perform his own theme song. That made it feel more personal. The song’s sample and catchy lyrics made it an instant hit. It also became closely tied to Cena’s “Hustle, Loyalty, and Respect” message and stayed his entrance for two decades.
Over the years, it also became a huge internet meme thanks to the viral “Unexpected John Cena” trend.
John Cena Performs His Signature WWE Theme During Podcast Appearance
Cena recently appeared on O’Shea Jackson Jr. and TJ Jefferson’s No Contest Wrestling podcast. A short 64-second teaser clip was shared on X by Jackson Jr. ahead of the full episode’s release. It will be one of Cena’s first big podcast appearances since retiring from the ring.
In the teaser, Cena, as usual, is dressed in a suit and sitting with Jackson and Jefferson. While talking about wrestling, the conversation turns to his entrance music. That’s when John Cena jumps in and starts rapping “The Time Is Now” completely acapella.
He started from “In case you forgot or fell off…” and went on to sing the entire first verse up to “I drop your whole clan, lay your a** down for the three-second tan..” joined by Jefferson, while Jackson Jr. was vibing.
The moment was a fun, nostalgic sing-along. It reminded everyone why the song still stays one of the most recognizable themes in wrestling.
TOMORROW. NO CONTEST WRESTLING. AND @JohnCena @theresnocontest pic.twitter.com/yKoKvqFhim
— O’Shea Jackson Jr (@OsheaJacksonJr) February 18, 2026
John Cena officially ended his in-ring career after a year-long farewell tour in 2025. However, despite his retirement, he is still busy being a WWE Ambassador, helping mentor young talent, and representing the company around the world.
He is also continuing his acting career, with upcoming projects like Matchbox and Coyote vs. Acme.
Read More: Rusev Reveals The Biggest Lesson John Cena Taught Him In WWE
