In a surprising revelation, former WWE star AJ Francis better known during his WWE run as Top Dolla from the Hit Row stable disclosed that John Cena declined his invitation to collaborate on a rap track with the group. Despite Cena’s celebrated reputation as one of WWE’s premier wrestler-rappers, he reportedly felt he couldn’t “keep up” with the style and flow of Hit Row, leading to a polite but firm refusal.
AJ Francis Opens Up About the Rap Collaboration Ask
During a candid interview with SHAK Wrestling, AJ Francis shed light on the conversation he had with Cena about joining Hit Row on a song while still in WWE. Francis recounted:
“John Cena himself told me that he couldn’t rap with me and that he would be doing a disservice to himself if he tried. I asked John to get on a song with me when I was still in WWE. He was like, ‘Bro, I can’t. I can’t do that anymore. It would be a disservice. I’ve heard the things that you do and I wouldn’t be able to hang with you guys.’ I was trying to get him on a song with all of Hit Row and he was like, ‘Nah, I can’t do it.’”[1][3][5]
This admission explains that Cena, despite being a highly skilled rapper in wrestling circles, was hesitant to join forces musically out of respect for his own brand and confidence in the newer generation’s style.
John Cena’s Rap Legacy in WWE
John Cena has long been recognized as one of WWE’s most adept ring-rappers, famously delivering entrance raps and freestyle promos that helped define his character’s appeal in the mid-2000s. His rapping prowess has often been favorably compared to other wrestler-rappers like R-Truth, Max Caster, and Swerve Strickland. Cena’s mastery of the mic is credited with elevating the art of wrestling promos beyond traditional speeches into rhythmic performances.[1][5]
However, Cena’s decision to decline the Hit Row collaboration suggests a shift in how he views his involvement in music today. The rap scene within WWE has evolved, with newer talents bringing distinct styles and flows that Cena respects but feels he cannot match anymore.
Hit Row’s Musical Ambitions and Style
Hit Row, the WWE stable consisting of AJ Francis (Top Dolla), Isaiah “Swerve” Scott, B-Fab, and Ashante “Thee” Adonis, made a significant impact not only as wrestlers but as a group blending wrestling entertainment with hip-hop culture. Their musical ventures, including rap tracks and music videos, garnered attention for their authentic integration of wrestling and urban music.[1][5]
Francis’s attempt to bring Cena into that creative space demonstrated the group’s desire to collaborate with wrestling music legends, bridging generations and styles. Despite the polite rejection, the attempt itself highlights Hit Row’s ambition to elevate wrestling music into a broader cultural conversation.
Backstage Insight: Why Cena Said No
Sources close to WWE backstage confirm that Cena’s refusal was out of respect for both himself and the music style of Hit Row. A WWE insider told:
“John respects the hustle and music of the current crop of wrestlers, especially those like Hit Row who bring a modern edge. However, he’s fully aware that his rap style is part of a past era and thought it would feel out of place. It wasn’t about ego but about timing and authenticity.”[5]
This perspective aligns with Cena’s stature as a seasoned performer who values genuine contributions over superficial collaborations.
AJ Francis and His Ongoing Music Career
Since his WWE releases, AJ Francis has continued pursuing his music career aggressively, releasing multiple studio albums and collaborating with artists inside and outside of wrestling. His new album “Dear Summer” features collaborations with members of the wrestling community such as Montez Ford, Trick Williams, and Ashante “Thee” Adonis, as well as established artists like Bun B.[5]
Francis has emphasized that music remains a core passion independent of wrestling, and working with Cena would have been a special crossover moment. The rejection, while disappointing, hasn’t deterred him from continuing to push his creative boundaries.
Cena vs. AJ Styles Set for WWE Crown Jewel
While the rap collab did not materialize, John Cena remains a prominent WWE star, preparing for his upcoming match against AJ Styles at WWE Crown Jewel. The event has been highly anticipated, with Cena continuing to make sporadic but memorable appearances in the wrestling world.[1]
This wrestling narrative contrasts with the behind-the-scenes music story but shows the multifaceted talents and opportunities that WWE stars like Cena and former Hit Row members navigate.