John Cena reflects on LA Knight quoting his own rap lyrics.
Prior to WWE Crown Jewel late last year, a new challenger emerged for the WWE Undisputed Universal Champion, Roman Reigns. John Cena would show up to confront the champion, but he noted he had not earned it. But he introduced a man who had, in LA Knight. Knight would come to the ring and would cut a promo on the champion with Cena in the ring, even quoting Basic Thuganonomics, drawing a surprised reaction from the 16 time world champion.
In a new interview with Chris Van Vliet, Cena was asked about the line, noting Knight's gifted ability on the microphone.
"There is a situation where, I want to say, he’s gifted. That’s not the right thing to say. What I should say is, ‘Man, he has worked to get his talent.’ He is the embodiment of perseverance and hard work and believing in himself. He has earned every inch. It was really really fun to be in there with him."
When asked if he knew Knight was planning on making the reference, Cena noted that he was not aware of the reference before Knight said it.
"Nope. I like performers who have ammo. I know he had more, and he didn’t spend some of the rounds. I like that preparation, I like that over preparation. I like that belief in self. He is authentically LA Knight. I believe everything he does. His mannerisms. His story is awesome. He’s not afraid to tell it. I got to see him mature just in the short time I was there. I got to be the ref for his match. To see the way he worked them to his philosophy in the tag match, and then to watch his matches after that. I could see him gain confidence, even in that short period of time. That’s what gets me to the edge of my seat and gets me going."
Knight would ultimately lose to Roman Reigns at WWE Crown Jewel, but has remained one of the top stars on Friday Night's in the meantime, and is currently in the midst of a rivalry with AJ Styles on SmackDown.
Elsewhere in the same interview with Cena, he would reflect on meeting MJF at The Iron Claw premiere. You can read more here.
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