BREAKING: Record Breaking Champ and Soon to be Dad— Defeats Cody Rhodes at Wrestlemania 41 for Record-Breaking 17th WWE World Championship and Announces First Child with Wife Shay Shariatzadeh

John Cena’s Monumental WrestleMania 41 Victory Crowned with Joyful Baby Announcement

In a night that will be etched in wrestling history, John Cena achieved the unimaginable at WrestleMania 41, defeating Cody Rhodes to claim a record-breaking 17th WWE World Championship title. But the celebration didn’t end in the ring. Shortly after his historic triumph, Cena, alongside his wife Shay Shariatzadeh, shared heartwarming news that sent shockwaves through the WWE Universe and beyond: the couple is expecting their first child together.

A Record-Breaking Triumph in the Ring

WrestleMania 41, held on April 19-20, 2025, at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, was billed as the biggest wrestling event of the year, and John Cena ensured it lived up to the hype. Facing off against the reigning champion Cody Rhodes, known for his grit and fan-favorite status, Cena delivered a performance that reminded fans why he’s considered one of the greatest to ever step into the squared circle.

The match was a grueling, high-stakes affair, with both superstars trading signature moves and near-falls that kept the sold-out crowd on the edge of their seats. Rhodes, riding a wave of momentum as the “American Nightmare,” pushed Cena to his limits. But in a moment of pure resilience, Cena countered Rhodes’ Cross Rhodes finisher, hoisted the champion onto his shoulders, and delivered a thunderous Attitude Adjustment to secure the pinfall victory.

As the referee’s hand hit the mat for the three-count, the Superdome erupted. Cena, visibly emotional, clutched the WWE World Championship belt, surpassing the record he previously shared with Ric Flair for the most world title reigns in WWE history. At 47, Cena proved that his in-ring prowess and unrelenting determination remain unmatched.

In his post-match speech, Cena reflected on the milestone. “This isn’t just about breaking records—it’s about proving that hustle, loyalty, and respect still mean something,” he said, addressing the roaring crowd. “Thank you for believing in me, and thank you for letting me live this dream.”

A Personal Milestone Off the Canvas

As the WrestleMania 41 spotlight began to dim, Cena shifted the focus to a deeply personal announcement that caught fans by surprise. Joined by his wife, Shay Shariatzadeh, at a press conference later that evening, Cena revealed that the couple is expecting their first child together in the coming months.

“Tonight was incredible, but there’s something even bigger than this championship that I want to share,” Cena said, his voice filled with emotion as he held Shariatzadeh’s hand. “Shay and I are thrilled to announce that we’re going to be parents. Our family is growing, and I can’t wait to take on this new chapter with her by my side.”

Shariatzadeh, a Canadian engineer and product manager who married Cena in October 2020, beamed with pride as the room filled with applause. The couple, known for keeping their personal lives relatively private, shared a rare glimpse into their excitement for the future. “John’s always been a champion in my eyes, in and out of the ring,” Shariatzadeh said. “We’re so grateful for this moment and can’t wait to meet our little one.”

A Love Story Rooted in Strength

Cena and Shariatzadeh’s relationship has been a source of inspiration for fans since they were first spotted together in 2019. The couple met in Vancouver during the filming of Cena’s movie Playing with Fire, and their connection was instantaneous. After a whirlwind romance, they tied the knot in a private ceremony in Tampa, Florida, followed by a larger celebration in Vancouver in 2022.

Shariatzadeh has often been described as Cena’s rock, supporting his multifaceted career as a wrestler, actor, and philanthropist. Cena has praised her intelligence and strength, noting in interviews that her perspective keeps him grounded. Their announcement at WrestleMania 41 marked a rare public moment for the couple, who typically shy away from the spotlight outside of Cena’s WWE and Hollywood endeavors.