Seth Rollins Names John Cena as the Wrestling Equivalent to Boxing Legend Muhammad Ali

Seth Rollins says that John Cena has earned a marquee status in professional wrestling which could modestly be compared to the influence of 'The Greatest'.

Seth Rollins Names John Cena as the Wrestling Equivalent to Boxing Legend Muhammad Ali

Seth Rollins, Muhammad Ali and John Cena (via Imagn and WWE)

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In sports, only a few icons transcend their discipline and become legends whose stories are passed down through generations. Muhammad Ali was one of them. ‘The Greatest’ didn’t just talk boldly, he fought boldly. Ali broke every traditional boxing rule: hands down, chin up, leaning back, inviting pressure. These habits would spell disaster for most fighters. But in Ali’s hands, they became weapons of genius.

Known as much for his sharp wit as for his lightning-fast footwork, Ali dazzled fans and outsmarted opponents with a style that was daring and poetic. He burst onto the world stage over 50 years ago, first as a lanky Olympic gold medalist, then as a dominant heavyweight champion, retiring with a remarkable 56-5 record. 

So, is there anyone in professional wrestling today who even comes close to Ali’s charisma and impact? Seth Rollins thinks he has the answer. ‘The Architect’ recently appeared on The Rich Eisen Show to discuss a range of topics. During the interview, he made a striking comparison, saying that Undisputed WWE Champion John Cena is the closest figure in professional wrestling to what Muhammad Ali was in boxing.

This is the hardest one. The cultural impact that [Ali] has had is incomparable. It’s incomparable. There’s not a person in sports who’s ever had, in my opinion, the cultural impact that Ali had…as a person, he was able to step outside of his sport in a way that nobody’s ever done, I think, the closest I would say is maybe John Cena.

Seth Rollins via The Rich Eisen Show

The former WWE Champion went on to highlight Cena’s cultural and societal impact, pointing to his iconic mantra of ‘Hustle, Loyalty, and Respect.’ He also praised Cena’s tireless goodwill efforts throughout his 25-year wrestling career, emphasizing the positive influence he’s had both inside and outside the ring.

I think the impact that John has had on individuals around the world via his Make-A-Wish campaign and the diligence that he put into making a difference in people’s lives in that way. He prioritized that over anything.

Seth Rollins via The Rich Eisen Show

The world knows Ali not just for his greatness in the ring but for his powerful humanitarian stance, most notably his refusal to serve in the Vietnam War, a moment that became a cultural and historical turning point. His legendary victories over icons like Sonny Liston, George Foreman, and Joe Frazier only cemented his status as the best ever. 

In a more modest but similar way, Cena has always spoken his mind and built a legacy through unforgettable moments with stars like The Rock, Triple H, and Roman Reigns. Still, as Rollins noted, no one can truly match the global impact of the Louisville juggernaut. 

Cena is currently midway through his retirement tour and recently made history by capturing his record-breaking 17th WWE title with a victory over Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 41. Now, he is set for a high-stakes rematch against ‘The American Nightmare’ at SummerSlam, this time in a brutal Street Fight. This tribute from Rollins, shared while he’s dealing with an injury of his own, speaks volumes about the respect Cena commands. As for Rollins’ own future? Here’s what he had to say.

Seth Rollins weighs in on his WWE legacy amidst knee injury rehabilitation

Seth Rollins recently suffered a right knee injury during Saturday Night’s Main Event in a match against LA Knight. The injury occurred while attempting a second-rope Lionsault—Rollins landed awkwardly on his feet and immediately grabbed his leg in pain as he moved toward the corner. He quickly spoke with Paul Heyman, the ringside doctor, and the referee to confirm the injury was legitimate.

Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns
Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns (via WWE)

Moments later, Knight capitalized with a BFT, securing an impromptu victory. Since then, the injury has been officially confirmed by Triple H and WWE, and Rollins was recently spotted on crutches backstage at Evolution 2. During the same podcast appearance, the Money in the Bank holder reflected upon a call from a fan he took during the show and opened up about the emotional moment.

I think I’m at a place in my career where if it all ended tomorrow, I would be extremely satisfied. Not only have I been able to accomplish all of these cool milestone things in life—winning world titles, main eventing WrestleMania, and headlining, I’ve been able to do all of those things and provide a life for my family and those close to me.

Seth Rollins via The Rich Eisen Show

Rollins also reflected on the friendships he’s built throughout his journey, especially with his Shield brothers, Roman Reigns and Jon Moxley, and how he met his wife, Becky Lynch, through wrestling.

I’ve made some of my best friends in wrestling. I have met my wife here, so I have a family because of this business. I’ve been able to travel the world. I get to talk to people like you [the caller] who tell me that I inspired you, which is crazy.

Seth Rollins via The Rich Eisen Show

Rollins is certainly the cornerstone of the modern crop of WWE stars. ‘The Architect’ is a magician inside the ring and has served as ‘The Workhouse’ for the promotion since his main roster debut in 2012. It will be interesting to see how Rollins will come back from this legitimate injury, considering that he has had issues with the same knee in the past.

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