John Cena is once again using his stature to support a rising WWE star.
Over the past few weeks, the 17-time world champion has repeatedly praised the former PROGRESS Atlas Champion, who previously wrestled on the independent scene as Will Kroos. Now competing in WWE NXT as Mason Rook, the big man is becoming one of the most talked-about new stars.
Rook was first addressed as a “fan” from the audience when he delivered a moonsault to NXT Champion Tony D’Angelo on the April 28, 2026, episode of NXT. Then, during the next week’s episode, he made another grand statement. After D’Angelo defeated Tavion Heights in the main event, Rook suddenly stormed the ring and attacked both men.
That’s when he revealed his new name in WWE, Mason Rook.
During the following episode, he officially signed the contract with WWE NXT and took out six men (including D’Angelo and Kam Hendrix) with a huge moonsault once again.
John Cena hypes young WWE star fans are already chanting for
After Rook revealed his new name, Cena reacted to the segment on X and referred to Rook’s popular independent wrestling chant. Cena posted, “He’s BIG… He’s BAD… He’ll BODYSLAM YER DAD!!!!” Rook later responded to Cena’s support.
The phrase became linked to Rook during his time in PROGRESS Wrestling, where he earned attention for being a heavyweight powerhouse with surprising athletic ability.
This was actually the second time Cena endorsed Rook. During his first NXT appearance, as a “fan,” Cena posted a picture of himself bodyslamming a wrestler during his indie days.
Cena’s continued support has led many fans to believe he sees real star potential in Mason Rook. And now, during a recent interview with CBS Sports, the 16-time World Champion was asked if there were any younger wrestlers who stood out to him as future breakout stars.
Without a second thought, Cena mentioned Rook again.
“It’s no secret I think to those in the know that I chant with everybody else, ‘He’s big, he’s bad, he’ll bodyslam your dad.’ So, if you don’t know who I’m talking about, I want you to go check that out. I’m a fan,” Cena said.
The praise means a lot for someone who has just made his debut in WWE NXT.
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