John Cena has long been one of the most beloved figures in sports entertainment and Hollywood. He is known for his charisma, discipline, and never-give-up attitude but behind the global superstar is a supportive and equally captivating partner, his wife, Shay Shariatzadeh. Since tying the knot in a low-key ceremony in 2020, the couple has largely kept their relationship away from the public eye, rarely sharing glimpses into their private life.
However, they recently made headlines when they shared a sweet kiss on the red carpet of Peacemaker, leaving fans gushing over their rare public display of affection. The moment was a refreshing reminder of the quiet love story behind John Cena’s larger-than-life persona and how the duo continues to turn heads even in their subtle, graceful way. Amidst of their cute PDA moment let’s have a look at who Shay Shariatzadeh really is.
Shay Shariatzadeh was born in Iran and raised in Canada
Shay Shariatzadeh’s roots reportedly trace back to Iran, where she was born. But soon after, she and her family moved to Vancouver, Canada. While the exact reason for their shifting to Canada has not been publicly shared by Shay or any other family member, it is widely reported that this move was a life-changing decision made by her mother, who wanted to give her children a better future and a wider range of opportunities.
Shay Shariatzadeh is an engineer with a strong career
Shay pursued her passion for science and technology by earning a bachelor’s degree in electrical and electronics engineering from the University of British Columbia. Her career includes impressive roles at top tech companies, such as Motorola Solutions and Sonatype, where she has worked as a product manager. Her expertise allegedly spans into thermal cameras, video intercom systems, and enterprise software.
Shay Shariatzadeh has been inspired by her mother’s strength and sacrifice
One of Shay’s biggest inspirations in her life is her mother, who gave up her successful career so that her family could move to Canada. This sacrifice had left a lasting impression on Shay, and has time and again motivated her to strive to be independent, work hard, and never give up on her goals. She credits her mother as the reason she constantly pushes herself to be her best self.
Shay Shariatzadeh met John Cena during the Super Bowl
Shay met John Cena in 2019 while he was in Vancouver filming Playing with Fire. Their first encounter happened at a restaurant during the Super Bowl, when a friend of hers approached John for a photo. That moment led to John meeting Shay, and he asked for her number, and texted her the same night. It was a bold move that sparked their relationship.
Shay Shariatzadeh and John Cena had a private wedding followed by a Canadian celebration
In October 2020, Shay and Cena tied the knot in a small, private ceremony at an attorney’s office in Tampa, Florida. Two years later, in July 2022, they hosted a second celebration in Vancouver surrounded by family and friends. Their approach to marriage reflects their shared preference for keeping intimate moments out of the public spotlight.
Shay Shariatzadeh keeps a low profile despite the fame
Unlike many celebrity spouses, Shay avoids social media and prefers to stay out of the limelight. This decision aligns with John’s desire to protect their privacy. Both value their personal lives and focus on their relationship rather than public attention, which is rare in the entertainment industry.
Shay Shariatzadeh is a supportive partner for John Cena on and off the red carpet
While Shay maintains her privacy, she’s often seen by Cena’s side at significant events. From their first red carpet appearance at the Playing with Fire premiere in 2019 to the Argylle premiere in 2024, she’s been a constant source of support for John. Her presence reflects on their strong love and partnership that thrives both in public and private. Most recently she accompanied John to the premire of Peacemaker, where the couple shared a sweet kiss.
Shay Shariatzadeh is the first woman linked to John Cena since Nikki Bella
Before meeting Shay, John was famously engaged to WWE star, Nikki Bella, but the pair called off their wedding in 2018. Shay is the first woman John has publicly dated afterwards, and their relationship quickly became serious and two ended up getting married. The couple’s genuine connection and out of the public eye relationship stands out in stark contrast to his previous high-profile romance.
John Cena has openly shared how much he values Shay’s well-being, even made it a vow during their wedding ceremony. He goes to great lengths to keep their whereabouts private, ensuring she’s never placed in any public harm. His protective approach towards Shay reflects the deep respect and care he has towards her.
John Cena has announced retirement from wrestling
John Cena had announced his retirement from wrestling in 2025. World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) is reportedly preparing to take a major step in its ongoing rivalry with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) by potentially scheduling John Cena’s final match to directly clash with AEW’s year-ending event, Worlds End, on December 27, 2025. Initially, John Cena was slated to face Brock Lesnar in early December at Saturday Night’s Main Event, marking what was expected to be the legendary 16-time World Champion’s farewell.
However, according to Bryan Alvarez on Wrestling Observer Live, there’s growing internal discussion within WWE about shifting the date to coincide with AEW’s major show. This move would represent another instance of high-stakes counter-programming as the two promotions continue their battle for ratings supremacy. While John plans to end his WWE career with memorable matches, Shay will undoubtedly be by his side.
Shay Shariatzadeh, from her engineering achievements to her unyielding support for John Cena, has time and again proven that being in the public eye isn’t a requirement for making a significant impact. Together, she and John form a partnership built on mutual respect, shared values, and love, and that’s all it needs.
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