John Cena Confirms Return Date, Backs Patriots' Gronkowski To Enter WWE

John Cena has been busy promoting his upcoming movie Bumblebee across the globe over the last few weeks, with stops in London, Shanghai and New York City among other cities. He has reportedly, also been filming a new movie alongside martial arts legend Jackie Chan, which has also kept him away from the wrestling ring in recent months

The 41-year-old, a 16-time World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) champion, found global fame for his achievements inside the squared circle and was one of the main faces of the franchise for over a decade. But his participation has been limited in recent years with appearances limited to few live and pay-per-view events.

Cena’s last appearance in the ring was at WWE’s Super Showdown in Melbourne Australia in October after which he had been busy with his film commitments. He was scheduled to appear at WWE’s controversial Crown Jewel pay-per-view in Saudi Arabia, but pulled out at the last minute.

The professional wrestler continues to be one of the most revered by the WWE Universe and their wait to see him in the ring will not last long, as Cena confirmed his return during a recent promotional event. He revealed that after spending Christmas with loved ones he will return to action on December 26.

“For Christmas, I want to spend some time with the folks that I love, and then after that I’m coming back the day after Christmas to do a WWE event,”Cena said, as quoted on Page Six.

Cena’s first appearance in over two months is expected to come at a live event at the Madison Square Garden in New York. He will reportedly appear in a six-man tag team match alongside Finn Balor and Elias to take on Bobby Lashley, Drew McIntyre and Baron Corbin.

It will not be the West Newbury-born wrestler's only appearance as he has been booked in numerous live events leading into mid-January, before a potential appearance in WWE’s first pay-per-view of 2019 ‘The Royal Rumble’.

Apart from confirming his return, Cena also praised Rob Gronkowski and he believes the New England Patriots tight end will be a good fit in the WWE if he ever decides to make the switch from American football.

“I think he’d be a great WWE Superstar. I really do,” Cena told ESPN while promoting his new movie. “I think he’s got this unbelievable energy and infectious electricity about him.”

“If he wants to take off the pads and step in the arena, I think he’ll feel right at home,” the 16-time WWE champion added.

The two-time Super Bowl champion is no stranger to WWE after he played a role in helping Mojo Rawley win the Andre the Giant battle royal at WrestleMania in 2017. While, NBC Sports reported Wrestling Observer’s Dave Melzer suggesting earlier in the year that the WWE were thinking of giving Gronkowski a contract similar to Ronda Rousey.