John Cena shows off his comedy chops as host of ESPYs

There may have been doubters when he was tapped to host the gig, but professional wrestler John Cena flexed his comedic muscles during the ESPY Awards Wednesday night.

Cena managed to provide a delicate balance between serious and satirical and ingratiate himself to the skeptical sporting audience with an opening monologue that would have made roast master Jeffrey Ross proud.

His performance is just another instance in the long line of mainstream opportunities where Cena has exceeded expectations. Although Cena’s initial foray into acting began with roles in such forgettable films as The Marine (2006), 12 Rounds (2009), and Legendary (2010), his recent supporting appearances have been show stealers.

Cena shared the screen, and at times stole the show, as Amy Schumer’s boyfriend in the 2015 film Trainwreck.

Later that year, he continued complementing very funny women, after he was one of the few highlights in the Tina Fey and Amy Poehler film Sisters.

And despite very average ratings hosting Fox’s True Grit reality series, Cena has also been a regular fill in on The Today Show where he charmed audiences by showcasing his ability to “booty pop.”

So the question everyone is wondering about the 15-time WWE World Champion is: Will he leave the WWE for the glitz and glamour of Hollywood? The answer, he said, is no.

"I don't plan on leaving WWE, ever," he told a TV reporter ahead of the ESPYs.

Many have compared Cena’s career path to Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, and much credit should be given to Johnson for paving the way. According to the 2016 Forbes Celebrity 100, Johnson is now the highest paid celebrity in the world. However, Johnson felt the need to take a near six-year hiatus from wrestling to distance himself from the stigma of that industry and focus on acting. With the path now paved, Cena does not have to take a leave.

The fact of the matter is, Cena is now at a point where he can call his shots with the WWE. He can work a limited schedule as a performer and spokesperson, make his many Make-A-Wish appearances, and still collect a lucrative paycheque from his squared circle roots.

Who knows. perhaps the next time John Cena and Dwayne Johnson meet they’ll be trading the squared circle for the silver screen?