John Cena Reveals Personal Challenge During New Movie
In a personal story, WWE icon and 17-time World Champion John Cena has revealed how he overcame his fear while shooting his new action-comedy Matchbox: The Movie. Speaking with Extra in an interview at San Diego Comic-Con, Cena explained that the film’s stunts were very challenging and shared that this was one of the biggest challenges of the production, because he had to step outside of his comfort zone.
Cena officially retired from WWE in December 2025, but has somehow stayed in the limelight due to his growing career in Hollywood. His most recent remarks have brought this quality and mentality to the forefront that continue to coax him outside the ring.
Cena Performed Most Of His Own Stunts
Cena during the interview said that the film’s action sequences were quite intense, and he did many of his own stunts. He said that some of the scenes definitely scared him, but due to the trust that he had in director Sam Hargrave and the dedication he had to his work, he kept going.
“This one’s a bit more, it’s practical action, just because I’m a bit more exposed to the real fear, considering the way we shoot it, and Sam Hargrave does the action.
“Stuff that isn’t exactly my favourite, I had to get the courage to do it. Sam Hargrave was a man that I wanted to do it for, he’s a great human being, and I can say with confidence, I’ll jump off a building for him, because I did that s**t.”
Cena’s remarks talked about the physical aspects of the film and his ability to take on tough challenges to really get into the role.
John Cena Discusses His Character
In addition, Cena gave some insight into the emotional aspects of his character in Matchbox: The Movie. The theme of the story is balancing work with having a fulfilling personal life, which is something many people can relate to, he said.
I can say, that it is the biggest challenge in his life of being torn between his work and his love. I feel like that’s something that a lot of people do go through like is it more of my duty to put more into my job or to put more into my personal relationships?”
This is an emotional struggle that is a big theme of the movie,” the actor said.
Matchbox Arrives Later This Year
Matchbox: The Movie is based on Mattel’s iconic toy brand and is directed by Sam Hargrave from a screenplay by David Coggeshall. Other cast members include Jessica Biel, Sam Richardson, Arturo Castro and Teyonah Parris.
The action-comedy will be released on Apple TV on October 9, 2026. A blend of big action and emotional moments, the movie is set to highlight another dimension of Cena’s acting talent, and he’ll go on to do another successful crossover job from a WWE superstar to Hollywood leading man.
