AJ Francis says Cena declined rap collab, prepping Dear Summer album

AJ Francis said a planned rap collaboration with John Cena did not go forward because, he was told, Cena believed he could not "keep up" with the style of Francis and his Hit Row colleagues. Francis made the claim in a recent interview about his crossover work in music and wrestling, saying he asked Cena to appear on a song while Francis was still with WWE and that Cena declined, telling him, "I cant rap with me... it would be a disservice. Ive heard the things that you do, and I wouldnt be able to hang with you guys."

Francis used the anecdote to underscore his confidence in his musical work and in Hit Row, the stable he was part of in WWE. He said he has continued to pursue music alongside wrestling and is preparing to release his fourth studio album, Dear Summer, which he said will feature collaborations with artists including Bun B and fellow wrestlers Montez Ford, Trick Williams, Briana Brandy, BFab, Tehuti Miles, and Ashante Thee Adonis.

The interview also covered Francis' broader view of his wrestling career and his transition into a more prominent role behind the scenes. He said success in wrestling is not always merit-based and that opportunities are often determined by...