New York: WWE legend John Cena has revealed that AJ Styles is the nicest person he has ever worked with in the company, sharing the story behind their acclaimed rivalry during an appearance on Bill Simmons’ YouTube show.
Cena recalled how difficult it was to build tension with Styles because he could not find a single negative thing to say about him.
“AJ is the nicest human being in sports entertainment,” Cena said.
Cena Struggled to Create Conflict for Their Feud
The 16-time world champion explained that during early discussions about their storyline, he wasn’t sure what the motivation behind their conflict would be.
“When we first sat down, I didn’t even know why we were fighting. I asked him, ‘Why are we fighting?’ He said, ‘I want to be the champ.’ I told him that wasn’t enough,” Cena recalled.
Cena admitted that he went back to his bus hoping to dig up something negative to use in promos against Styles – but found nothing. Eventually, both stars worked together to craft a compelling story.
How They Built Their Rivalry
Cena shared that Styles ultimately suggested leaning into the idea that AJ believed he was the better in-ring performer, especially if Cena had never been in his way.
Styles told Cena, “Maybe AJ thinks that if you were never around, I’d be where you’re at — and I’d be better. Because when we’re in the ring, I am better.”
From there, the pair developed the narrative that defined their feud, culminating in their memorable Royal Rumble showdown, where Styles portrayed himself as the technically superior wrestler and Cena as the charismatic star who fans believed always found a way to win.
Fans Took Sides — and the Story Worked
The dynamic worked perfectly:
- WWE loyalists supported Cena
- Longtime TNA fans rallied behind Styles
Cena said the biggest lesson he learned was simple:
“You have to sit and ask, ‘Why are we fighting?’”
Cena’s Final WWE Match Approaches
John Cena is set to retire on December 13, wrestling the final match of his career. His opponent will be determined between LA Knight and Gunther, who are competing in the Last Time is Now Tournament.
