5 Shocking Facts About John Cena’s Marriage To Engineer Shay Shariatzadeh In 2025

Yes, John Cena is currently married. As of late 2025, the WWE legend and Hollywood actor is happily married to his wife, Shay Shariatzadeh, a Canadian engineer of Iranian descent. Their relationship, which began in 2019, represents a significant chapter in Cena's personal life, marking a departure from his highly publicised past romances. The couple has maintained a notably private profile, a stark contrast to his previous engagements, focusing instead on their shared life and careers outside the spotlight. The couple's commitment was solidified through two separate ceremonies, highlighting their desire for both legal and intimate celebration. Their first, a private legal ceremony, took place in October 2020 in Tampa, Florida, followed by a more lavish second wedding in Vancouver, Canada, in July 2022. This dedication to privacy and a low-key lifestyle has endeared them to fans who respect the couple's boundary-setting approach to fame.

John Cena: Complete Biography and Professional Milestones

John Felix Anthony Cena Jr. is one of the most recognisable figures globally, having successfully transitioned from a record-breaking professional wrestling career to a highly successful acting career. His life has been defined by his mantra of "Never Give Up" and his commitment to charity work, particularly with the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

• Full Name: John Felix Anthony Cena Jr.
• Date of Birth: April 23, 1977
• Current Age (2025): 48 years old
• Birthplace: West Newbury, Massachusetts, U.S.
• Height: 6 ft 1 in (185 cm)
• WWE Debut: 2002
• Signature Catchphrase: "You Can't See Me," "Hustle, Loyalty, Respect"
• Key WWE Achievements: 17-time World Champion (13-time WWE Champion, 4-time World Heavyweight Champion), 5-time U.S. Champion, two-time Royal Rumble winner, and one-time Money in the Bank winner.
• Notable Filmography: *Trainwreck*, *Bumblebee*, *F9: The Fast Saga*, *Peacemaker*, *Suicide Squad*, *Fast X*.

Cena's career trajectory is a testament to his versatility. Starting as "The Prototype" in Ultimate Pro Wrestling (UPW), he quickly rose to prominence in World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), becoming the face of the company for over a decade. His move into Hollywood has seen him take on diverse roles, from action hero to comedic lead, further solidifying his status as a global entertainment icon.

The Whirlwind Romance: How John Cena Met Shay Shariatzadeh

The story of how John Cena met his current wife, Shay Shariatzadeh, is a refreshingly normal one, given his superstar status. It all began in early 2019 while Cena was in Vancouver, British Columbia, filming the family comedy *Playing with Fire*.

A Chance Meeting in Vancouver

The couple’s initial meeting was not at an exclusive Hollywood party or a wrestling event, but rather in a restaurant. Shay, who was working in Vancouver at the time, was reportedly having dinner with friends when she first encountered the famous wrestler. The connection was immediate and genuine, blossoming away from the usual celebrity chaos. Cena has often spoken about the profound impact Shay has had on his life, describing her as his "number one passion." Their relationship became publicly known when they were spotted on several dates in Vancouver. The fact that Shay is an accomplished professional who is not part of the entertainment industry is a key pillar of their strong and private bond.

From Private Dates to Red Carpet Debut

The relationship was confirmed in October 2019 when Shay accompanied John Cena to the red carpet premiere of his film, *Playing with Fire*. This public appearance was a clear signal that the relationship was serious, and it was the first time fans got a proper look at the woman who had captured the heart of the famously private star. Shay’s presence on the red carpet, where she looked poised and comfortable, showed her support for Cena's career while maintaining her own identity.

Shay Shariatzadeh: The Engineer Behind the WWE Superstar

Shay Shariatzadeh is a fascinating figure who stands apart from the typical celebrity spouse. Her background is rooted in the world of technology and engineering, providing a grounding influence on the high-octane life of her husband.

Professional and Educational Background

Born in Iran on September 21, 1990, Shay Shariatzadeh is a highly educated and successful professional. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from the prestigious University of British Columbia (UBC). Her career has seen her excel in product management, software testing, and cross-functional leadership, primarily within the security and technology sectors in Canada. This professional success is a defining trait of her personality, showing a strong work ethic and intellectual independence. Cena has praised her intelligence and independence, indicating that her non-celebrity life offers a sense of normalcy and stability that he values deeply.

The Two Weddings: Florida and Vancouver

The couple’s decision to have two weddings reflects their bicultural and bi-national lives. The first ceremony in October 2020 was a highly private, low-key affair at an attorney's office in Tampa, Florida, serving as the legal registration of their marriage. The second ceremony, held in July 2022, was a much more elaborate and intimate celebration with family and friends in Vancouver, Canada, where they first met. This dual celebration allowed them to honor their commitment in a legally binding way while also enjoying a traditional, heartfelt wedding with their loved ones. The commitment to such privacy is a core feature of their marriage.

John Cena’s Relationship History: A Look at Past Engagements

To fully understand the significance of John Cena’s current marriage to Shay Shariatzadeh, it is important to look at his past high-profile relationships, which were often scrutinised by the media and wrestling fans alike.

The First Marriage: Elizabeth Huberdeau

John Cena’s first marriage was to his high school sweetheart, Elizabeth Huberdeau. The couple got married in 2009. However, their marriage ended abruptly, with Cena filing for divorce in 2012. The divorce proceedings were highly contested and received considerable media attention before the couple finally settled. This initial experience with a public marriage and subsequent divorce likely contributed to his later desire for greater privacy.

The High-Profile Engagement: Nikki Bella

Cena’s most famous relationship was with fellow WWE Superstar Nikki Bella (Nicole Garcia). Their relationship began in 2012 and was heavily documented on the reality television shows *Total Divas* and *Total Bellas*. The relationship culminated in a highly public engagement at WrestleMania 33 in 2017, where Cena proposed in the middle of the wrestling ring. Despite the grand gesture, the engagement was called off in April 2018, just weeks before their planned wedding. The central issue, which was often publicised, revolved around Cena’s long-standing reluctance to have children, a topic that became a major point of contention between the two. The public nature of their split was emotionally draining for both parties. The end of the relationship with Nikki Bella marked a turning point for Cena, leading him to seek a more private and grounded personal life. His marriage to Shay Shariatzadeh, an engineer who values her privacy and professional career, is a clear reflection of this shift in priorities.

The Future: Family Plans and John Cena’s Evolving Perspective

The question of children has been a recurring theme in discussions about John Cena's relationships. His previous stance on not wanting to have children was a major factor in his split from Nikki Bella. However, his perspective has subtly evolved since marrying Shay. Cena has publicly stated that he is open to the idea of fatherhood, indicating that he is willing to be a father if it is what his wife wants. This change in heart highlights the depth of his commitment to Shay and his willingness to embrace a new chapter in his life. As of late 2025, the couple does not have children, but they are focused on enjoying their marriage and supporting each other's demanding careers. Their relationship continues to be a source of strength for the celebrated actor and wrestler.