Paul Wight Names John Cena the Toughest Opponent of His Career

Paul Wight has had a longer, more varied career than almost anyone in professional wrestling. From WCW to WWE to TNA and beyond, the seven-foot giant has shared the ring with legends across multiple generations — yet when asked to single out the toughest man he’s ever worked with, Wight’s answer is John Cena.

Wight recently addressed the question, pointing to Cena as standing apart from the long list of accomplished opponents he’s faced throughout his decorated run in the business. It’s a notable distinction given the breadth of competition Wight has encountered. Over the course of a career spanning three decades, he’s been in the ring with everyone from Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair to Undertaker and Big Show — a rogues’ gallery of the sport’s all-time greats.

His history with Cena inside WWE is well-documented. The two were featured prominently against each other during some of the company’s biggest events, with Cena’s relentless work ethic and physical toughness long regarded as benchmarks in the industry. Cena spent the better part of two decades as one of WWE’s most dependable performers, known for pushing through injury and consistently delivering in high-profile matches regardless of circumstance.

For Wight to elevate Cena above everyone else he’s faced — including Hall of Famers and world-title reigns across multiple eras — says something meaningful about what Cena brought to the table on a personal and professional level.

With Cena currently in the middle of a well-publicized farewell tour ahead of his retirement from in-ring competition, Wight’s endorsement lands at a fitting moment, serving as yet another reminder of the impression Cena left on those who worked alongside him at the highest level.