WWE’s John Cena Diagnosed With Skin Cancer Twice, Regrets Skipping Sunscreen
WWE Superstar, Hollywood actor, and philanthropist John Cena has long been known for his strength, charisma, and relentless work ethic. But in early 2025, Cena revealed a deeply personal and unexpected battle: he has been diagnosed with skin cancer—not once, but twice—after years of neglecting sun protection. His revelation has sent shockwaves through fans and sparked a much-needed public dialogue about the importance of sun safety.
In this blog, we explore Cena’s journey, what led to his diagnosis, the health risks associated with sun exposure, and most importantly, how you can protect yourself. Cena’s story is not just a celebrity headline—it’s a powerful reminder that skin cancer can affect anyone, even the strongest among us.
Who is John Cena?
John Cena is more than a WWE wrestler—he’s a global icon. Born in 1977 in West Newbury, Massachusetts, Cena rose to fame in the early 2000s through WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment), quickly becoming one of the company’s biggest draws. With 16 world championship titles, Cena shares the record for most world titles in WWE history with Ric Flair.
Outside of wrestling, Cena has starred in films such as Bumblebee, Peacemaker, The Suicide Squad, and the Fast & Furious franchise. Known for his “Never Give Up” motto, Cena is also a tireless philanthropist, granting over 650 wishes for the Make-A-Wish Foundation—more than any other individual.
Despite his powerful presence, Cena recently admitted to facing a challenge he never anticipated: skin cancer.
The Shocking Revelation
In June 2025, John Cena made a public appearance on a wellness podcast, where he opened up about his experience with skin cancer. He admitted he had been diagnosed twice in recent years, attributing the issue to long-term sun exposure without adequate protection.
“I spent years outside training and performing under the sun,” Cena said. “Back then, sunscreen wasn’t even a thought. I never imagined it could come back to haunt me like this.”
According to Cena, he underwent two separate treatments to remove basal cell carcinoma (BCC), the most common form of skin cancer. While he is now cancer-free, he emphasized the importance of early detection and, most crucially, daily sun protection.
The Dangers of Skin Cancer: What Everyone Needs to Know
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the world, and yet many still underestimate its dangers. There are three major types:
1. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
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Most common but least dangerous.
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Appears as a flesh-colored, pearl-like bump or a pinkish patch.
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Caused by long-term sun exposure.
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Grows slowly but can cause disfigurement if untreated.
2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
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Can grow deeper into skin and spread to other areas.
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Often appears as a scaly, red patch or wart-like growth.
3. Melanoma
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Most deadly form of skin cancer.
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Starts in the pigment-producing melanocytes.
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Can spread rapidly if not caught early.
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Often appears as a new mole or changes in an existing mole.
Risk Factors for Skin Cancer
John Cena’s story is a classic example of several risk factors coming together:
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Prolonged Sun Exposure: Cena’s years performing in open-air arenas and training outside without SPF made him vulnerable.
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Light Skin Tone: Fair-skinned individuals are at higher risk due to less melanin.
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No Use of Sunscreen: Cena admitted he didn’t wear sunscreen for most of his life.
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Geographic Location: Spending time in sunny locations like Florida or California increases UV exposure.
Cena’s Wake-Up Call: Why This Matters
Cena said the moment he received his diagnosis, it was like “getting hit with a chair I didn’t see coming.” He underwent Mohs surgery, a precise surgical technique used to treat skin cancer, to remove the cancerous tissue. The procedures were successful, but the emotional toll was significant.
“I’ve faced injuries and surgeries before, but this was different. This wasn’t something I could wrestle with and beat in the ring. This was a silent opponent I never even trained for.”
Cena’s vulnerability during interviews has touched millions, including younger fans who grew up idolizing him. His message is clear: “Don’t be stupid like I was—wear sunscreen, every single day.”
The Importance of Sunscreen: What You Need to Know
Sunscreen isn’t just for beach days or vacations—it’s for every day.
How Does Sunscreen Work?
Sunscreens contain ingredients that:
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Reflect (physical blockers like zinc oxide)
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Absorb (chemical filters like avobenzone)
UV rays, preventing them from damaging your skin.
What SPF Should You Use?
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SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays.
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SPF 50 blocks about 98%.
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SPF 100 blocks about 99%.
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Reapply every 2 hours or after swimming/sweating.
Other Sun Safety Tips:
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Avoid direct sun from 10 AM to 4 PM.
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Wear protective clothing like wide-brimmed hats and long sleeves.
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Seek shade when possible.
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Use sunglasses with UV protection.
John Cena’s Advocacy for Sun Safety
After his diagnosis and recovery, Cena is now working with dermatologists and health organizations to raise awareness about skin cancer. He’s using his platform to educate people on prevention, early detection, and treatment.
He’s also helping schools and gyms provide sunscreen dispensers and pushing for public policy changes that encourage sun protection in outdoor work environments.
“If me speaking out helps even one kid wear sunscreen every day, then it’s worth it,” Cena said.
The Cultural Stigma Around Sunscreen
Part of the reason Cena—and many others—neglected SPF is due to a long-standing cultural association of sunscreen with vanity or femininity. Cena addressed this in his interviews:
“There’s this idea that real men don’t wear sunscreen. That’s total crap. Real men take care of their health.”
This toxic mindset has led generations of men to dismiss self-care practices like skincare. Cena’s candor is breaking down those stereotypes, urging fans to rethink what strength really looks like.
What to Do If You Notice Something Suspicious
Early detection is key to surviving skin cancer. Here’s what to watch for, using the ABCDE rule for spotting melanoma:
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Asymmetry – One half doesn’t match the other.
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Border – Irregular, blurred, or jagged edges.
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Color – Multiple colors or uneven shades.
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Diameter – Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
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Evolving – Any change in size, shape, color, or symptoms like itching/bleeding.
If you notice anything unusual on your skin, see a dermatologist immediately.
Final Thoughts: Cena’s Message to the World
John Cena’s battle with skin cancer is a wake-up call for all of us. He’s a man who’s endured bone-crunching matches, surgeries, and intense physical trials—but even he wasn’t immune to the invisible danger of UV rays.
Let his story serve as a reminder that sun safety isn’t optional—it’s essential. No matter your skin tone, age, or gender, protecting your skin should be part of your daily health routine.
Cena closed his recent interview with a powerful statement:
“I used to think SPF was for other people. Now I know it could’ve saved me a lot of pain. Wear it. Every day. No excuses.”
Take Action Today
Inspired by John Cena’s journey? Here’s what you can do:
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Buy a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen today.
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Start applying it every morning, even on cloudy days.
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Share this blog post with friends and family.
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Book an annual skin check with a dermatologist.
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Teach kids about sun safety early—it could save their lives.
Remember: Skin cancer doesn’t discriminate. If it can affect someone as tough as John Cena, it can affect anyone. Protect yourself, and spread the word.