While an argument can be made for Ric Flair, Steve Austin, Hulk Hogan, or Shawn Michaels, in a recent appearance on the Club Shay Shay podcast, John Cena declared Roman Reigns as the “Greatest of All Time” (G.O.A.T) in WWE history. Praising his unparalleled impact on the business, Cena admitted that it might be odd to list an active wrestler as the best, but he had a valid argument to back his opinion.

Cena’s endorsement comes from a different perspective than many who have undertaken to try to name a Mount Rushmore of the best and then narrow it down to the best overall. Instead of going with in-ring technical ability or fan reaction, Cena cited the numbers. He highlighted the remarkable growth in WWE’s stock value as a testament to Reigns’ influence.

“In 2012, the stock was traded at $11. WWE/TKO stock is now at $117. That’s on his shoulders, there isn’t a better indication.”

Cena emphasized that Reigns’ presence has significantly contributed to the company’s financial success. WWE is worth more today than it has ever been and while Cena said it takes a team of people and WWE Superstars to elevate a company, the pressure has been on Reigns’ shoulders for over a decade. With him as the face of WWE, their value has skyrocketed.

Cena Also Acknowledged Reigns’ Other Attributes

When discussing the concept of the G.O.A.T, Cena praised Reigns not only for his in-ring prowess but also for his business acumen and respect for the industry. “Joe’s smart, passionate about the business, multigenerational athlete, has respect for his family, has respect for the locker room, has respect for the business,” Cena said. Noting that Reigns understands the business as well as anyone, it could be why The Original Tribal Chief has been able to excel, even when the fans didn’t like him.

Reigns has not only elevated himself into a position where the WWE Universe is now firmly behind him, but Reigns has elevated numerous talents throughout his career. It’s a long list of stars that Reigns is largely responsible for creating so that, even when he’s done in WWE, the company has personalities they can bank on. Cena argued that statistically, Reigns has contributed to WWE’s success more than any other performer.