John Cena, one of the most iconic figures in WWE history, has often been in the spotlight for his in-ring achievements and acting ventures. However, outside the wrestling ring, his personal life remains relatively private, especially regarding his wife, Shay Shariatzadeh. WWE fans curious about this mysterious yet influential woman will find her story as inspiring as Cena’s legendary career.
Who Is Shay Shariatzadeh?
Shay Shariatzadeh is best known as John Cena’s wife, but her life and career extend well beyond being married to a wrestling superstar. Unlike many celebrity spouses, Shay has maintained a low profile, choosing to focus on her professional achievements rather than public fame.
She boasts a strong background in the technology sector, where her intelligence and strategic thinking have earned her significant recognition. Shay has carved a niche as a tech professional, blending perseverance with a clear vision to excel in a competitive industry. Her rise reflects not only career ambition but also a serious dedication to her craft, which parallels Cena’s own work ethic in wrestling and Hollywood[1].
Their Relationship Timeline and Private Weddings
The romance between John Cena and Shay Shariatzadeh took a subtle but swift course toward marriage. The couple was first publicly seen together in October 2019 at the New York premiere of Cena’s movie Playing with Fire. Just a few months later, in February 2020, Cena proposed on Valentine’s Day, signaling a serious commitment despite their relatively brief public relationship.
The wedding itself was notably private. Cena and Shay married on October 12, 2020, in an intimate ceremony in Tampa, Florida, steering clear of media frenzy. Nearly two years later, they celebrated their love with a more public ceremony at the Rosewood Hotel Georgia in Vancouver, Canada, surrounded by close family and friends[1].
Shay’s Low-Key Public Profile and Cena’s Devotion
Shay’s preference for privacy has kept her out of tabloid headlines and wrestling fan speculation. She does not engage much with social media or public appearances, choosing instead to spotlight her relationship through moments shared with Cena rather than media exposure.
Despite this, John Cena openly expresses his admiration and affection for Shay. In a 2025 interview at the Heads of State NYC premiere, Cena called Shay his “#1 passion,” highlighting how his wife has become the most important aspect of his life as he transitions away from active wrestling into acting and ambassador roles. Cena described his relationship with Shay as the heart of his future plans outside WWE, emphasizing a deep personal bond that anchors his evolving career journey[2].
Balancing Fame, Career, and Privacy
The dynamic between Cena’s global stardom and Shay’s desire for a more grounded life creates an interesting contrast. Sources close to WWE mention that Shay’s tech career and low-key approach help provide Cena with a grounding influence away from a demanding entertainment lifestyle. According to a WWE insider, “She keeps things real for John, providing stability amidst the chaos of fame. It’s a partnership built on mutual respect and trust, not just public image.”
This balance also allows Cena to focus on closing his wrestling chapter on his own terms, ensuring family remains a priority. Interviews suggest that as Cena approaches retirement, his focus on Shay and their life together becomes paramount[3].
What’s Next for John Cena and Shay Shariatzadeh?
Looking ahead, Cena’s priorities seem clear. He plans to step back from the WWE ring but stay connected to the wrestling world as a lifelong ambassador. Meanwhile, Shay continues to build her career in technology discreetly, supporting Cena’s transitions and ambitions.
Their relationship exemplifies successful navigation of fame without sacrificing personal boundaries. They celebrate anniversaries privately, focus on meaningful moments, and keep their love story largely away from the public gaze.
Cena’s heartfelt comments about Shay his “#1 passion” reflect a genuine partnership that complements his storied career and evolving public roles.