John Cena hosting WWE WrestleMania 42 was reportedly not always the plan.
Following his retirement from in-ring competition in December 2025, 17-time WWE Champion recently confirmed that he will return to the promotion to host WrestleMania 42. While fans are wondering how long the promotion has had this in mind, Wrestlevotes Radio (via Fightful Select) reports that it was not a long-term plan.
According to the report, John Cena as the WrestleMania host was not in the plans as of his retirement match in December 2025. Cena learned of the plans in February 2026 and agreed to do it. The 17-time world champion had also agreed to a new long-term deal with the promotion, which does not include in-ring competition.
WWE reportedly made the move to increase ticket sales for WrestleMania 42. The promotion faced criticism due to high ticket prices. They recently offered special discounts and unique fan experiences to attract more attendees.
WWE WrestleMania 42 will take place at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada, on April 18 and 19. The promotion has announced 12 matches for the event so far.
Jim Ross pitches a unique role for John Cena in WWE
Speaking on a recent episode of his Grilling JR podcast, WWE Hall of Famer and current AEW commentator Jim Ross pitched an idea that John Cena should become a commentator in WWE.
“I’d like to hear John’s commentary. He’s smart, he’s got a way with words. I’m curious as to how he might do in that role. There’s no doubt in my mind he’s got the talent for it. But I don’t know if he would be content with that or not. But he would do a good job, no doubt about that in my view,” the WWE Hall of Famer said. [H/T WrestleTalk]
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