There’s a new host for the ESPYS. And his name is John Cena!
The World Wrestling Entertainment pro wrestler will emcee ESPN’s annual sports award ceremony, the company announced Thursday. The show will be broadcast live at 6 p.m. July 13 on ABC.
“It is truly an honor to be named host of the 2016 ESPYS,” Cena said in a news release. “Not only will the biggest names in sports and entertainment come together to recognize some of the most spectacular athletic performances of the year, but we’ll also raise funds for The V Foundation to further much-needed cancer research.”
Cena, a 15-time WWE world heavyweight champion, has been rehabbing a shoulder injury which he underwent surgery for on Jan. 7. He made a brief appearance at WrestleMania 32 in Dallas, but his return to regular television is slated for the May 30 episode of “Raw.”
“John is not only a superstar athlete and entertainer, but also a motivational force who inspires fans across the globe,” ESPYS executive producer Maura Mandt said in a news release. “John approaches all of his endeavors with energy, enthusiasm and passion so we expect him to bring a new level of excitement to the night’s celebration.”
This is the 24th iteration of the ESPY Awards — short for Excellence in Sports Performance Year Award). Actor Joel McHale hosted last year’s show.
