Austin Theory has shared a surprising behind-the-scenes story from WrestleMania 39, revealing that John Cena spoke to Vince McMahon on his behalf after their match.
The conversation came after one of the biggest victories of Theory’s career and offered a glimpse into Cena’s belief in the young star’s long-term potential.
Speaking on the IMPAULSIVE podcast with Logan Paul, Theory reflected on defeating his childhood hero and explained why Cena’s words stayed with him long after the final bell.
John Cena believed Austin Theory’s future went beyond being a WWE villain
When Logan Paul asked what it was like to defeat Cena at WrestleMania 39, Theory recalled the guidance he received before the match. He said Cena invited him to dinner and encouraged him to stop thinking of himself as just an over-the-top heel.
“I just remember him telling me, ‘You’re not a bad guy. Like I want you to be you,'” Theory said. “I was like, ‘Man, I’m this obnoxious, over-the-top, cocky heel.’ And he’s like, ‘I feel like that’s not going to last too long. You got to be yourself.'”
Theory admitted he was confused by the advice at the time, wondering, “How do I do this? Like, you know, like I’m a bad guy.”
The WrestleMania 39 match carried extra meaning for Theory. Theory recalled growing up with a cardboard cutout of Cena in his bedroom and called him “always my dude.” He also shared a personal family story, revealing that his grandfather had one request if Theory ever wrestled Cena.
“He told me… ‘All I ask from you is when you face John Cena that I get a hot dog and a Coke in the crowd.'” Theory said his girlfriend made sure that wish came true on WrestleMania day.
The biggest surprise came after the match. According to Theory, Cena told him, “Hey, I went and talked to Vince. I told him, ‘You’re not a bad guy,’ so hopefully that helps you become a good guy.”
Theory laughed while recalling the exchange, adding, “Let’s see.” It was a fitting post-match endorsement from the face of a generation — proving that sometimes the biggest rub comes after the referee counts three.
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